Wild Pronghorn Welfare: Migration, Fencing, and Climate

Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), North America's fastest land mammal, undertake remarkable seasonal migrations threatened by fencing, roads, and climate change, creating significant welfare and conservation challenges.

Key Facts

Pronghorn are the fastest land animals in the Western Hemisphere, capable of sustained speeds over 55 mph
Unlike deer, pronghorn cannot jump over fences — they must crawl under them or find gaps
The Path of the Pronghorn in Wyoming is one of the longest remaining land migrations in the lower 48 states
Thousands of pronghorn are killed annually by vehicle collisions on roads that bisect migration corridors
Wildlife crossing underpasses and fence modifications have dramatically improved pronghorn passage rates
Drought and extreme heat reduce forage quality and water availability across pronghorn range
Pronghorn evolved alongside predators including American cheetah-like species now extinct — they run from habit
Sage-grouse habitat conservation often benefits pronghorn as both species depend on intact sagebrush ecosystems

Welfare Considerations

Migration is not merely a behavioral preference for pronghorn — it is an evolved necessity to access seasonal forage and avoid winter starvation. When migrations are blocked by fencing, roads, or development, pronghorn face malnutrition, increased disease risk, and mass die-offs during severe winters. Individual animals that cannot complete migrations suffer prolonged nutritional stress and increased predation vulnerability. Wildlife crossing structures specifically designed for pronghorn have proven highly effective — animals learn to use underpasses within a single season. Fence modifications (bottom wire raised to 18 inches) allow pronghorn passage while retaining livestock containment at minimal cost.

What You Can Do

Support wildlife crossing funding in transportation bills
Advocate for fence modification programs on public and private lands
Support sagebrush ecosystem conservation organizations
Reduce livestock grazing pressure in critical pronghorn migration corridors
Learn about and share information about pronghorn migration routes in your state