Elk, bears, frogs, and other animals have been utilizing a newly constructed wildlife overpass in Colorado, which connects 39,000 acres of habitat. According to a recently released report, this overpass has reduced wildlife-vehicle collisions by 91% since its completion 10 months ago.
Significant Reduction in Collisions
Brandon Marette, a wildlife biologist for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, shared a touching moment with CBS News:
“"One of the most heartwarming moments for me was when [Colorado Department of Transportation] sent me a picture of an elk mama taking her calf under [Interstate-25]. All came to fruition in that one moment. That elk with her calf was just standing there in safety."
Before the overpass was built, there was an average of one wildlife-vehicle crash per day in this corridor. Wildlife crossings like this one are becoming more common across the country to protect animal habitats and reduce collisions, which can lead to injuries and fatalities for both humans and animals.
Benefits of Wildlife Overpasses
Research indicates that overpasses can nearly eliminate these accidents and that such infrastructure often pays for itself by preventing costly crashes. Currently, nearly 20 wildlife crossings are in progress across the U.S., with the Colorado structure being the largest.
