Vehicle collisions are one of the most common causes of admission for wildlife at the Wildlife Center of Virginia, with a significant portion of the annual caseload resulting from these incidents. Patients affected by vehicle collisions include a variety of species, ranging from Black Bears and mammals of all sizes to native turtle species, as well as birds and raptors, from songbirds to Bald Eagles. More than 700 animals came to us last year alone due to vehicle collisions.
These collisions not only cause serious injuries to wildlife but also endanger drivers, often resulting in costly vehicle damage. Virginia ranks in the top 10 states in the nation for wildlife-vehicle conflict. All of this emphasizes the need for a systemic solution. HB 2025 provides a critical framework for addressing this issue by incorporating wildlife corridors into infrastructure planning, standardizing wildlife-vehicle data collection, and supporting biodiversity conservation.
Key Reasons to Support HB 2025:
- Improved Wildlife and Driver Safety:
Wildlife crossings, which allow animals to safely navigate fragmented habitats, have been shown to reduce collisions by up to 96%. Addressing high-risk areas during the planning phase of highway projects will protect both wildlife and people. - Enhanced Conservation of Native Wildlife:
Roads disrupt the natural movement of countless species. Wildlife corridors reconnect fragmented habitats, supporting the survival of threatened and at-risk populations. - Stronger Data Collection for Strategic Solutions:
Standardizing data collection on wildlife-vehicle collisions and carcass removals will provide a clearer picture of hotspot areas, allowing for the strategic placement of crossings and maximizing impact.
HB 2025 creates solutions that benefit all Virginians: protecting native wildlife, enhancing driver safety, and building resilient infrastructure for the future. As a hospital dedicated to teaching the world to care about and care for wildlife and the environment, the Wildlife Center of Virginia strongly supports this critical initiative.
If you live in Virginia, contact your state representative today to urge their support for HB 2025.
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