Drivers who have struck a deer with their cars often do not immediately consider what to do with the animal. However, for many in Illinois, this thought emerges shortly after. As a result, the state has introduced a program enabling residents to claim roadkill deer. This allows people to process the meat, taxidermy, or use various parts creatively.
“Most of the day-of vehicle accident claims are processed by individuals for personal consumption,” explained Illinois Conservation Police Capt. Josh Mooi. He noted, “If it’s a trophy buck, someone might mount it.” However, claiming a deer requires permission from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). This popular program processes around 2,500 roadkill deer claims each year.
Cook and nearby counties account for about 180 annual claims. To initiate the process, residents must visit the agency’s dedicated website. Butcher John Schalz, who specializes in processing wild game, emphasized the value of utilizing the meat rather than letting it go to waste. At his South Elgin market, he processes roughly 20 roadkill deer annually.
Schalz requires an IDNR tag and documentation before accepting the deer for processing. These items ensure biologists can track deer populations and understand population trends. IDNR tags also acknowledge that the claimants have legal possession of the animal, akin to hunting.
For deer injured in collisions, the state’s website provides contact information for conservation officers tasked with euthanizing wounded animals. Only Illinois residents may claim these deer, provided they are not behind on child support payments. State law strictly prohibits the sale of any roadkill deer.
Taxidermists such as Tom Rancak in Cary work with roadkill deer occasionally. He mentioned working on a piece where two deer with locked antlers were found dead by the road. Usually, those who discover such animals request a European mount, which means cleaning and bleaching the skull while attaching the antlers.
Meanwhile, it takes only a few days and about $200 to process a deer for meat, yielding approximately 75 pounds. Meat from roadkill is perceived as lean, and care should be taken not to overcook it. Though some suspect an adrenaline spike from the collision could affect meat flavor, Schalz contests this belief.
Mooi shared he has tried roadkill deer meat but prefers it from trusted sources. He assures that, when handled promptly, the meat remains safe to consume.
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