Colorado officials warn of increased wildlife collisions as daylight saving time ends

Colorado state officials are urging motorists to exercise extra caution on roadways as daylight saving time ends on Sunday, November 1, 2026. The shift to setting clocks back one hour means dusk will arrive earlier, coinciding with a period of heightened wildlife activity.

Wildlife species including elk, deer, moose, pronghorn, and bighorn sheep are currently migrating to wintering habitats. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) notes that the state holds the largest elk population in North America. Additionally, officials report record-high bear activity across the state this year, partly due to mountain drought conditions. Bears are particularly active at dawn and dusk while searching for food.

The Colorado State Patrol reported 3,811 crashes involving wildlife last year, with October, November, and December identified as the most active months for such incidents. To mitigate risks, authorities recommend that drivers obey speed limits, avoid distractions, and scan for movement. Recent infrastructure investments, such as wildlife crossings on Interstate 70 at Vail Pass and Colorado Highway 9, aim to reduce these collisions.