Illinois Offers Program for Claiming Roadkill Deer

In Illinois, a unique program allows residents to claim deer hit by cars. This initiative supports those interested in processing the meat, taxidermy, or even crafting projects with deer parts.

According to Illinois Conservation Police Capt. Josh Mooi, most vehicle accident-related deer claims result in personal consumption. Some individuals even use the program to mount trophy bucks.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) requires permission for such claims. Their program processes about 2,500 roadkill deer claims yearly. Residents in Cook and surrounding counties submit around 180 claims annually. The process begins on the agency’s website.

John Schalz, a butcher specializing in wild game, operates in South Elgin. He processes approximately 20 roadkill deer each year, making steaks, sausage, and jerky. To proceed, the IDNR tag and necessary documentation are essential.

Mooi stresses the importance of documentation. It helps biologists study population trends and ensures compliance with laws related to animal possession, similar to hunting.

Residents can fill out an online form with basic information. Once completed, they receive a tag number to claim the deer. In certain situations, injured deer require euthanasia by conservation officers.

State law specifies only Illinois residents can claim roadkill deer. Residents not current on child support payments cannot participate. The sale of roadkill deer meat is prohibited, and processed meat is strictly for personal use.

Although rare, other means of deer fatalities also require documentation. These include incidents like deer getting stuck in fences or killed by other animals.

Tom Rancak, a taxidermist in Cary, described a case involving deer with locked horns. Such unique occurrences provide opportunities for taxidermy enthusiasts. Rancak processes only a few roadkill deer yearly.

In comparison, other taxidermists receive fewer requests. Jim Nelligan, a seasoned taxidermist in Palatine, noted that roadkill is generally not people’s preferred choice for trophies.

The cost and time for mounting a deer head can be substantial, reaching $1,000 and taking up to 18 months. Conversely, processing the meat is quicker, averaging about $200 and yielding approximately 75 pounds of lean meat.

Some believe a deer’s adrenaline spike from being hit alters the meat’s flavor, but Schalz, the butcher, disagrees.

Mooi, having tasted roadkill deer from trusted sources, acknowledged that when handled promptly, the meat’s quality remains acceptable.