A Closer Look At Roadkill Hotspots In 4 Selected Countries

There is no denying the fact that automobiles have changed transportation and made our lives easier. They are, however, the same reason that roads travel across animal habitats, causing conflict between animals and humans. Collisions often result in the unfortunate death of the animal, as well as large damages to the vehicle. Knowing where some of the hotspots for roadkill are, helps encourage more cautious driving, sparing both animal and human lives. Let’s take a look at four of these roadkill hotspots in four different countries.

1. The United States, California

Around a million car-animal collisions occur in the United States each year. You might have guessed that deer are the most affected animals by road accidents in the US, West Virginia being one of the most prevalent states in the nation. While N/S Dakota, Michigan, and Pennsylvania have the highest populations of deer in the US, California boasts having some of the most diverse deer in the world. Unfortunately, it is also the most populous state in the US, meaning that collisions with animals are also alarmingly high in The Golden State.

Places like Santa Clarita to the North of LA are not so badly affected by roadkill hotspots if scientific surveys are anything to go by. For instance, a 2016 report shows that the San Francisco Bay area carries some of the most notorious highways for wildlife roadkills in CA. Perhaps this is due to the various steps taken by the State government to protect the rights of wild animals and ensure their wellness. Some of the measures commonly taken by the US state and federal governments to minimize vehicle-animal collisions include:

• Increasing the number of “animal crossing” warning signs along specific roads
• Enforcing animal control measures such as wildlife fencing and population control
• Creating road underpasses and overpasses for wildlife
• Monitoring driver behavior and instilling discipline on the roads through approaches like stern actions against traffic offenders
• Better road design, especially for highways where animals are likely to cross

These are some of the approaches used by governments to protect both humans and animals on the roads. As a driver, however, it is overly important to be extremely vigilant when using remote roads. Before pressing too hard on the gas pedal just because traffic is clear, pause to look at the signs and think about the possibility of hitting an innocent animal head-on.

2. Australia, Queanbeyan

Australia is well-known for being home to some of the world’s most dangerous animal species. The native marsupials such as kangaroos and wallabies are well-known to exist in this region. These animals may weigh up to 70kg and are noted for hopping around as a mode of movement. Unfortunately, their notable closeness to the roadways in Queanbeyan, New South Wales, often puts these endangered species at dire risk. The roads are too close to the bushland, which is these creatures’ native habitat. Due to an increase in the number of incidents in this area, the roads passing through the natural areas in and around Canberra have been designated as roadkill hotspots.

3. South Africa, Durban to Johannesburg Highway

Africa is home to a variety of wild animals. It is unfortunate that, as in any other continent, several animals fall victim to road accidents. One place that has been listed as a roadkill hotspot is the 500km stretch from Durban to Johannesburg. Most accidents along this road usually involve the Serval. Servals are more active during the day. That and the fact that they are drawn near the roads to prey on smaller animals are some of the main reasons they are killed in huge numbers. Several signs have been installed along the highway to inform the drivers of the presence of these animals.

4. Canada, Ontario

Canada records several roadkills itself. Out of the ten provinces in the country, Ontario records the highest number of these kills. The country and the neighboring region have several hoofed animals scattered everywhere. These animals are often the victims of road accidents. Ontario, which records the highest number in all the Canadian provinces, is generally a roadkill hotspot. If you happen to drive by, there are several signs warning drivers of these animals.

While automobiles have numerous advantages, it is prudent to ensure that they do not degrade the lives and rights of wild animals. While governments have several measures to protect human and animal lives on the road, it needs to be a conjunct effort with the road user. Being cautious on the road while driving through protected areas can go a long way toward protecting and saving the lives of wild animals. If you are interested in more global roadkill hotspots, we have included this infographic by Matt Keogh at Compare the Market.

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