Q: What is a quick, simple, and cost-effective way to prevent or reduce small animal crossings on local roads?

A: Researchers in Minnesota found that a chain-link fence with a retrofitted .5-inch wire mesh design significantly decreased turtle mortality by up to 91% when combined with under-the-road culverts for invertebrate crossing access. The implementation of this low-cost solution not only protects wildlife but enhances safety by reducing the chances of motorists swerving to avoid animals or drivers exiting their vehicles and entering the roadway to help them.

Resources:

• Minnesota Local Research Board
  REDUCE VEHICLE-ANIMAL COLLISIONS WITH INSTALLATION OF SMALL ANIMAL EXCLUSION FENCING
• Improving Road Safety and Wildlife Conservation With Barrier Fencing  - (Blog Post)
• Minnesota Zoo, MnDOT Partner To Address Dwindling Blanding’s Turtle Population  - (News/Publication Article)
• Turtle Deaths on MN Highways are Declining Thanks to New Fences  - (News/Publication Article)
• Scandia leaders question chain-link fence to protect turtles. Was better-looking option available?  - (News/Publication Article)
• Unique partnership between Minnesota Zoo and MnDOT aims to benefit wildlife, drivers  - (News/Publication Article)
• Collaboration with Minnesota Zoo Aims to Conserve Wildlife  - (Blog Post)

(Nov 2022)