Tapirs are large, vulnerable herbivores that suffer significant road mortality as highways fragment their forest habitats - their welfare requires wildlife crossing infrastructure and reduced vehicle speeds.
Tapir welfare on fragmented roads involves acute trauma from vehicle collisions - a welfare harm that is largely preventable with appropriate infrastructure. Tapirs crossing roads at night are at particular risk as drivers may not see them. Wildlife crossing structures including underpasses with appropriate vegetation have successfully reduced tapir road mortality where installed. Speed restrictions and warning signs in known tapir crossing areas also reduce mortality. Habitat fragmentation forcing tapirs to cross roads represents a chronic welfare threat across South American road expansion programs. Environmental impact assessments for road projects should mandate wildlife crossing provision.