The threat to the country’s unique red wolf species has shifted from hunters to motorists, as evidenced by a tragic incident on U.S. 64 near Manns Harbor, North Carolina. Last June, a breeding male red wolf, known as No. 2444, was struck and killed on this highway, leaving behind orphaned pups. Efforts to save these vulnerable animals have been ongoing for years, particularly due to the highway’s disruptive impact on the red wolves living in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge.
Recent developments offer hope for a solution to this pressing issue. The Federal Highway Administration has initiated a Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program, allocating funds to revamp a 2.5-mile stretch of U.S. 64. This project aims to create safe passages for red wolves, black bears, white-tailed deer, and other wildlife through the use of fencing and culverts. By implementing these measures, not only can the risk of collisions and roadkill be minimized, but the critically endangered red wolf population can also be safeguarded.
The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated, as the red wolf population in the wild is dwindling, with fewer than 20 individuals remaining. Each loss, such as No. 2444, is a significant blow to the survival of the species. The ultimate goal of the U.S. 64 project is to preserve the red wolves while promoting harmony between humans and wildlife.
Wildlife crossings have proven to be effective in reducing accidents and protecting various species across the United States. Through careful planning and research, ecologists have identified suitable structures for different animals, such as bridges for pronghorn antelope and underpasses for deer. By guiding animals safely across highways, these crossings not only prevent collisions but also ensure the preservation of wildlife habitats.
The success of similar projects in Wyoming and Canada highlights the positive impact of wildlife crossings in mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. With bipartisan support and a focus on safety, these initiatives demonstrate the potential to create a sustainable future for both wildlife and humans.
The question of whether wildlife crossings can help prevent extinctions is a challenging one to answer. According to Ben Goldfarb, the author of “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet,” conservation is becoming an increasingly important rationale behind the construction of these crossings. Some of the most ambitious wildlife crossings have recently been completed, but it will take time to evaluate their effectiveness.
In the Los Angeles area, a wildlife crossing spanning 10 lanes of U.S. 101 is set to open in 2026. This crossing aims to connect the habitats of mountain lions, who need to cross the freeway to find suitable mates. Inbreeding among mountain lions in the region has resulted in genetic mutations and decreased fertility.
In Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, a wildlife bridge crossing BR 101 was completed in 2020, and native seedlings have been planted to promote natural habitat growth. Once these trees mature, researchers will study whether the target species, an endangered golden lion tamarin monkey, uses the bridge regularly.
The future of red wolves in North Carolina is uncertain, with vehicle collisions posing a significant threat to their survival. Efforts to mitigate these risks have included flashing road signs and reflective collars, but these have had limited success. In response to these challenges, a grant application for the Red Wolf Essential Survival Crossings Under Evacuation Route (RESCUER) project was submitted, proposing a series of underpass structures on U.S. 64 to facilitate safe wildlife crossings.
The estimated cost of the RESCUER project is around $31.5 million, with private donations and a matching grant contributing to the funding. Beth Pratt, the founder of The Wildlife Crossing Fund, described this project as one of the most critical wildlife connectivity initiatives in the country.
The statement for the project is as follows: “If no action is taken, critically endangered red wolves face the risk of extinction.” The Health and Science Department of The Associated Press is backed by the Science and Educational Media Group of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Financial support for AP’s climate and environmental reporting comes from various private foundations. The AP is fully accountable for all its content. Visit AP.org to access the AP’s guidelines for collaborations with philanthropic organizations, a roster of supporters, and the areas covered through funding.
