Putting Roadkill Data to Good Use

Methods

Summary

Where

This study will be conducted on California highways and major roads located in areas where: rare or endangered species, native habitat, and high rates of traffic occur. These types of roadways were selected because they are the most likely to be near populated areas and are of greatest conservation concern. 

We will adapt an approach developed by a science teacher in San Diego who used the phenomenon of roadkill to educate students about animal anatomy, causes of animal mortality, and conservation.  

How

We will choose 10 roadways and highways of different lengths to function as representative transects.  To survey carcass presence along these roadways, we will recruit 2-3 people per roadway-transect. In the first year, we will aim to have 25-30 people conducting 18 total surveys for the 2017-2018 school year: 2 per month for 9 months. 

To record carcass at specific points, specific milepost ranges will be established on specific roadways. Individual carcass may be photographed, if it can be done safely and all carcass will have minimum record collection field requirements: Species, Size/life stage, Location Coordinates, Carcass position, road-surface or right-hand shoulder, Date/time, and Speed limit. Animals will not be sexed, unless ungulates with antlers.

To establish the relationship between the different species and their roadkill rate, we will collect data on location, time of season, canopy cover or other vegetation, as well as consider the foraging habits reported for the species. Species will be identified to the lowest taxonomic level possible.

Safety - 

Safety is paramount, we will use Federally designated road safety tips for safe driving.  All roadside data gathering is done with collection permits.