Science Vs Daylight Saving Time: Should We End It?
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Oct 30, 2025 
In this enlightening discussion, wildlife ecologist Laura Prugh dives into how daylight saving time alters deer behavior and increases vehicle collisions as winter darkness sets in. She explores the historical roots of the practice and its debated benefits while shedding light on its health impacts, including links to heart attacks and sleep disruptions. The conversation also examines whether a shift to permanent standard time or daylight saving time would be more beneficial for our health and commuting safety.
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Origins And Weak Energy Case
- Daylight saving time began as a wartime energy-saving measure in World War I but now saves little if any energy.
- Economic benefits are mixed and favor certain industries like retail and sports, not the whole economy.
Deer Collisions Rise At Dusk
- Laura Prugh studies deer and links evening darkness to more vehicle collisions.
- Deer are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk when visibility is low.
Fall Back Raises Collision Risk
- After the fall clock change, Laura Prugh found a 16% spike in deer-vehicle collisions the following week.
- Permanent daylight saving time could prevent thousands of collisions, injuries, and dozens of deaths annually.