Wildlife

Wildlife Road Mortality and Mitigation

Roads kill billions of animals annually worldwide, and targeted mitigation can dramatically reduce wildlife mortality.

Key Facts

Roads are estimated to kill over 1 billion animals per year in the US alone
Hedgehogs, badgers, and amphibians are among the most affected in Europe
Wildlife underpasses and overpasses significantly reduce road mortality
Seasonal speed limit reductions help during peak migration periods
Culverts and fencing direct animals to safe crossing points

Welfare Considerations

Road mortality causes immense suffering, often involving severe injury before death. Survivors may endure extended suffering in road margins. Effective mitigation through targeted crossing structures, fencing, and seasonal management saves large numbers of animals and reduces suffering at a population level.

What You Can Do

Support local wildlife crossing campaigns and road planning
Report road kill hotspots to local authorities
Drive carefully at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active
Advocate for wildlife-sensitive road design standards
Support funding for crossing structures at identified hotspots