29 Nov INNOVATIVE ROADKILL STUDY CONDUCTED BY BIKE BY CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY ON ROUTE 112

From August to September 2021, Concordia University’s Jochen Jaeger’s research team tested a new protocol for tracking wildlife mortality by bike on Route 112. Surveys by car were not possible on the road due to its width and many curves.

Out of a total of 1,696 roadkills, the students found hundreds of very small amphibians, mammals, and reptiles that would likely have gone undetected had the survey been conducted by vehicle. Conducting the surveys by bike and at reduced speed increased the students’ ability to detect these small animals.

In collaboration with Appalachian Corridor, the data will be analyzed to identify hot and cold spots for road mortalities. This data will be used to plan future mitigation installations along the road.