This is Why We Need Wildlife Crossings : The Hearty Soul

As urban areas expand and encroach on natural habitats, the coexistence of humans and wildlife becomes increasingly challenging. This is particularly evident along highways, where around 2 million collisions between vehicles and large animals occur annually (1).

In Colorado, a state abundant with wildlife, a solution has been implemented to protect both animals crossing roads and motorists.

Wildlife Over and Underpasses

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has constructed 30 overpasses and underpasses to facilitate safe wildlife crossings, including ones over major highways.

From 2006 to 2016, there were 472 reported collisions between animals and vehicles on Highway 160, with most involving Mule Deer (2).

In response to these alarming statistics, an underpass was built to allow wildlife to cross beneath the highway without encountering vehicles. Remote cameras have captured images of deer, raccoons, coyotes, and other animals utilizing the walkway (2).

“At the [Durango] underpass we’re seeing a large number of mule deer going through the structure daily,” CDOT biologist Mark Lawler informed. “Animals are using the structure; we’re not just moving the problem.” (2)

The state is now exploring additional locations along highways where safe animal crossings can be implemented.

Animal Crossings Around the World

Various states and countries have begun taking measures to ensure the safety of both animals and humans on roads.

Taxpayers have to be on board

Constructing these specialized crossings is crucial for the safety of all species. While the cost can be significant, ranging from $300,000 to over $1 million, taxpayer support is essential for funding these initiatives (2).

The average cost of an animal-vehicle collision is approximately $4,000 per incident. The savings in damages to infrastructure, vehicles, and healthcare expenses far outweigh the expense of implementing these crossings, provided they are strategically located to maximize animal usage (2).

The Bottom Line

If you reside in an area abundant with wildlife but lacking safe crossing points, consider advocating for the construction of wildlife crossings to benefit all species.

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