Watch Out for Wildlife Weeks runs Sept. 15-21
Caltrans and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife are reminding motorists to remain alert for wildlife near roadways.
This week, Sept. 15-21, marks Watch Out for Wildlife Week.
“It’s important that motorists, when driving through areas frequented by deer, elk and other animals, be alert to protect themselves as well as California’s wildlife,” said Caltrans Director Malcolm Dougherty.
More than 200 people are killed nationally each year in collisions with deer, elk and other large mammals, according to the nonprofit organization Defenders of Wildlife. An estimated 1.5 million animals are hit annually.
“Many injuries, deaths and costly vehicle repairs can be avoided if drivers would pay more attention when animals are most active, and be prepared to react safely if an animal moves onto the road,” said Craig Stowers, game program manager for with the Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.
The agencies offer the following tips:
Be particularly alert when driving in areas frequented by wildlife and give yourself more time to react safely by reducing your speed.
Pay particular attention when driving during morning and evening, as wildlife are most active during these times.
If you see an animal cross the road, know that another may be following.
Don’t litter. The odors may entice animals to venture near roadways.
On the Central Coast, Caltrans is working with the Land Trust of Santa Cruz County to build a new wildlife undercrossing at the Laurel Curve on State Route 17. Since 2007, motorists have hit 14 mountain lions along this section of the highway in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Land Trust is working to raise $5 million to purchase land on either side of the Laurel Curve, which would make it possible for Caltrans to proceed with building the undercrossing.
Caltrans is also seeking $1.8 million in federal funding to finance wildlife corridor projects in Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties where local wildlife exists in close proximity to state highways. If the request is approved, Caltrans will obtain an additional $2.5 million in state funding to finance all aspects of the projects. Caltrans has assembled an extensive list of stakeholders and partners for this proposal, including the California State Coastal Conservancy, the Nature Conservancy, UC Davis, the Elkhorn Slough Foundation, the Pinnacles National Monument and the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County.
