In a move aimed at reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions, the Wyoming Conservation Services (WCS) has announced that starting this fall, all antlered animals – including deer, elk, and moose—will have their racks painted with high-gloss, industrial-grade reflective paint.

Officials say the program, dubbed “Operation Glow Rack”, will make it easier for drivers to spot animals on or near roadways at night.

“We’ve tried warning signs, fences, and even those little deer whistles people slap on their bumpers,” said WCS Spokesman Randy Flinterhorn. “But nothing gets a driver’s attention like a glowing eight-point buck reflecting their high beams like a disco ball at Studio 54.”

The reflective paint, imported from a Scandinavian mining safety supplier, is said to be visible from up to 500 yards away when hit with headlights. Application is expected to begin this September, with game wardens armed with tranquilizers, ladders, and paint sprayers forming specialized “Glow Teams.”

“We’ll have mobile units stationed at major migration corridors,” said team leader Becky Luman. “Once an animal is sedated, it only takes about 10 minutes to give the antlers two coats and a sealant. We’re also tossing in glitter for style.”

Drivers React:

While some motorists are praising the program, others claim it’s causing new problems.

“I thought I was being abducted by aliens when I saw that moose,” said Cheyenne resident Terry Dukes. “Its rack lit up like a Vegas sign, and I drove straight into a ditch trying to get away.”

A pilot program last winter near Lander led to 47 fewer animal strikes, but also caused 16 cases of temporary snow blindness, 12 minor accidents due to “light shock,” and one man who tried to lasso a glowing elk thinking it was the Ghost of Christmas Past.

Backlash From Hunters and Wildlife Advocates

Hunters across the state are furious.

“It’s cheating,” said local hunter Dale “Rackmaster” Jenkins. “These antlers are supposed to blend in. Now they look like runway lights at Denver International. Hell, I bagged a buck last week just by following the glimmer.”

Animal rights groups have also expressed concern, with the Wyoming Wildlife Friends issuing a statement:

“While we support reducing roadkill, turning every elk into a walking emergency flare may disrupt mating rituals and cause existential crises in more sensitive moose.”

In response, WCS is also considering seasonal color options. Early fall may feature camo-colored reflective paint, while winter months could bring festive patterns like “Candy Cane” and “Frozen Tinsel Blaze.”

In Related News:

The Wyoming Department of Transportation has issued a warning to drivers: “Please refrain from chasing, photographing, or attempting to ride any wildlife exhibiting a glow. Especially moose. Seriously. Moose are mean

Asher Watkins died after he was attacked by a buffalo while on a hunting safari in South Africa, Coenraad Vermaak Safaris said in a statement.

Credit: Ozkan Ozmen – stock.adobe.com

Author: Rachel Behrndt

Published: 8:48 AM CDT August 7, 2025

Updated: 8:53 AM CDT August 7, 2025

DALLAS — A Dallas real estate executive died on a South African hunting safari after a buffalo he was tracking attacked him, safari company officials said.

Asher Watkins, 52, was on a guided safari led by Coenraad Vermaak Safaris in South Africa’s Limpopo Province when the attack occurred, according to a statement from the safari company. 

On Aug. 3, Watkins was fatally injured while tracking an unwounded buffalo with a professional hunter and tracker, the statement reads. The safari company described the attack as “sudden and unprovoked.” 

“This is a devastating incident, and our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Coenraad Vermaak Safaris said. “We are doing everything we can to support the family members who are here with us and those back in the United States as they navigate this tragic loss.”

On the safari company’s website, they describe the cape buffalo as “the most dangerous animal to pursue in Africa, let alone the world,” adding that the animal is responsible for “several deaths and many injuries to hunters each year.” 

“Buffalo are known to charge unprovoked but when they are wounded it is advisable to be prepared for the worst,” the website reads. “Buffalo hunting is thrilling and exhilarating, placing this formidable species at the top of every hunter’s wish list!”

Watkins was the managing partner of Watkins Ranch Group, a real estate company specializing in “elite ranch and land properties,” the company’s website states. The firm is an affiliate of Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty and LIV Sotheby’s International Realty. 

He previously sold multi-million-dollar ranch properties in Arkansas, Colorado and Texas. 

Watkins was raised in Dallas and worked on his family’s hunting and cattle ranch, according to his biography posted to the Watkins Ranch Group website. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, according to his online biography and social media posts. He was a life member of the Dallas Safari Club and the American Association of Professional Landmen. 

“(Coenraad Vermaak Safaris) will continue to support the family in the days and weeks ahead and we are cooperating fully with all the relevant authorities to ensure all procedures are followed,” the safari company said.