The cost of crossing: An initial attempt to uncover wildlife vehicular mortality in Doddabetta, Nilgiris (India)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63356/gsf.2025.006Keywords:
Breeding season, Endemic species, Herptofauna, India, Roadkill, Seasonal pattern, Shola habitatAbstract
Roads pose a significant threat to wildlife, particularly in biodiversity-rich regions such as the Nilgiris (India). This preliminary study documents patterns of wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVC) in the Doddabetta region, focusing on taxonomic diversity, seasonal variation, and species-specific vulnerability. A total of 80 individuals from 19 species were recorded as roadkill across 60 randomly selected days, with reptiles especially the endemic Salea horsfieldii showing the highest incidence. The data suggest a strong correlation between roadkill events and seasonal activity patterns, particularly during breeding periods. Contributing factors include high vehicle speeds, roadside garbage that attracts prey species, and inadequate driver awareness. The study underscores the urgent need for mitigation measures such as wildlife crossings, dynamic signage, and impact assessments of existing and proposed roads. As the findings are based on limited, randomly timed surveys, we recommend future research with systematic seasonal monitoring during both day and night to better understand the broader ecological implications. This study provides baseline data for developing conservation strategies in high-risk zones like Doddabetta.
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