Wild Animal Road Mortality Reduction

Roads kill billions of wild animals annually; wildlife crossings, reduced speed limits, and seasonal closures are proven interventions that save animal lives.

Key Facts

Road mortality kills an estimated 1 million vertebrates per hour in the US alone
Some amphibian populations lose over 50% of migrating individuals to road mortality annually
Wildlife crossings (overpasses and underpasses) reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by up to 87%
Seasonal road closures during peak amphibian migration nights dramatically reduce local amphibian mortality
Roadside lighting disturbs nocturnal wildlife and can be targeted for reduction near habitats

Welfare Considerations

Road mortality is one of the largest direct causes of wildlife suffering globally, yet it receives far less attention than equivalent threats. Each road strike causes acute injury and pain, often without immediate death, leaving animals to die slowly roadside. At the population level, roads fragment habitat, isolate genetic populations, and selectively remove the boldest dispersers from populations. Addressing road mortality requires a systems approach including wildlife crossings for major roads, fencing to direct animals toward safe crossing points, reduced speed limits in wildlife movement corridors, and seasonal management adjustments.

What You Can Do

Drive slowly and attentively in wildlife movement areas, especially at dawn and dusk
Support local campaigns for wildlife crossings on roads in important habitat corridors
Participate in seasonal road closure campaigns for amphibian migration nights
Advocate for wildlife crossing requirements in road design standards
Report road-injured wildlife to local wildlife rescue organizations