Behavior May Help Understand and Reduce Wildlife-Vehicle Collisions

Understanding Animal Behavior Key to Reducing Collisions

Research Focuses on Identifying Patterns, Predicting Behavior

Animal behavior is often overlooked when it comes to understanding and mitigating wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs), but a growing body of research is highlighting its importance. By studying the patterns and behaviors of animals, researchers hope to develop more effective strategies to reduce the number of these collisions, which pose a significant threat to both wildlife and human safety.

One key area of research focuses on identifying the factors that influence animal movement and behavior near roadways. This includes understanding the influence of habitat characteristics, such as the presence of food and water sources, as well as the timing and duration of animal activity. By identifying these factors, researchers can develop targeted mitigation strategies that address the specific needs of different species.