As summer fades and the crisp air of fall settles in, Virginia’s wildlife gets busy — and that means more animals are crossing roads. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out to enjoy fall foliage, it’s important to stay alert behind the wheel. Fall is a peak season for wildlife-vehicle collisions in Virginia, and… Read more
You may have seen the exciting news over the last month or so — Virginia’s final state budget includes $450,000 in funding for wildlife crossings! This is a major step forward in protecting both wildlife and people on our roads. Thanks to the leadership of Senator David Marsden and the tireless advocacy of many partners… Read more
Each year, millions of animals are killed on roads, and countless drivers experience dangerous—and sometimes deadly—collisions with wildlife. Virginia has one of the highest deer-vehicle collisions reported rates annually. These collisions cost the state and its citizens a lot of money each year. Virginia is consistently ranked among the top 10 states with the highest… Read more
Wildlife crossings are becoming more widely recognized for reducing wildlife-vehicle conflicts, habitat connectivity, and contributing toward driver safety. Even more notable is their role in supporting biodiversity during times of climate change. A recent paper on the impact of wildlife crossings for climate adaptation highlights how strategically designed wildlife crossings can help wildlife adapt to… Read more
Aquatic crossings, like culverts, play a crucial role in maintaining ecological connectivity and facilitating wildlife movement across landscapes fragmented by human infrastructure. Designing these crossings to be wildlife-friendly can significantly enhance biodiversity and support ecosystem health. Below are key considerations and strategies for creating effective aquatic crossings. What is the guidance for creating aquatic crossings?… Read more
Black bear collisions are on the rise in Virginia. Make sure to pay special attention to the road when there are any animal crossing warning signs. You may encounter a warning sign that is flashing and this indicates that the animal is close by. Always slow down in these areas. Here in Virginia, we are blessed to share… Read more
Wildlife must be able to move through our landscapes to acquire resources, find genetically diverse mates, and adapt to a changing climate. Roads, development, and other infrastructure can impede wildlife movement and create dangerous scenarios on our roadways for both wildlife and people. Virginia continues to build a network of connected landscapes and reduce human-wildlife… Read more