Welfare of Animals in Wildlife Crossing Programs

Wildlife crossing programs reduce road mortality and habitat fragmentation, and are among the most evidence-based large-scale animal welfare infrastructure investments available.

Key Facts

The Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing in California will cost approximately 90 million dollars and serve mountain lions, mule deer, and hundreds of other species
Over 1,200 wildlife crossings have been built in North America and Europe
Crossings reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions by 80-95% in evaluated corridors
Mountain lion genetic diversity in Santa Monica Mountains has been critically reduced by freeway fragmentation
European highway crossings are used by species from badgers to bears when properly designed

Welfare Considerations

Wildlife crossing welfare benefits operate at multiple scales: individual animals avoid vehicle strike deaths; populations maintain genetic connectivity that prevents inbreeding depression; and behavioral freedom to move across landscapes enables animals to access food, mates, and seasonal habitat. Road ecology research shows that crossing type, location, and habitat connectivity on either side all determine crossing effectiveness. Investment in wildlife crossings delivers sustained, measurable welfare improvements for multiple species simultaneously.

What You Can Do

Support the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing campaign and similar regional projects
Contact your state or provincial transportation department about wildlife crossing priorities
Donate to Western Transportation Institute researching crossing design and effectiveness
Advocate for wildlife crossing requirements in all major highway expansion and reconstruction projects