Ecoducts

An ecoduct, also known as a wildlife crossing or ecological bridge, is a structure designed to allow animals to cross human-made barriers such as roads, railways, or rivers. By reconnecting fragmented habitat, ecoducts help maintain wildlife populations, protect biodiversity, and reduce vehicle-wildlife collisions.

They come in several forms, the most common being overpasses that arch above a road or railway, and underpasses or culverts that run beneath it. Some ecoducts also cross rivers or highways using tunnels or bridges integrated into the landscape. A key design feature is continuity with the surrounding habitat, often achieved by placing vegetation, soil, and terrain on top and on the approaches to invite animals to use the crossing. Fences or guided ramps are typically installed to channel animals toward the crossing and discourage attempts to cross at unsafe locations.

Ecoducts provide ecological benefits by maintaining gene flow between populations, enabling seasonal migrations, and expanding access to resources. They reduce the risk of wildlife-vehicle collisions, improving safety for people and livestock. Effectiveness depends on landscape context, traffic volume, and species presence; some crossings see high usage by large mammals and diverse taxa. Ongoing monitoring—often with cameras, track pads, and wildlife surveys—helps designers adapt management and ensure long-term success.

Planning and funding typically involve coordination among transportation agencies, conservation groups, and landowners. Construction costs are substantial but can be cost-effective over time when considering avoided damages and ecological benefits. Today, ecoducts are built worldwide, with numerous examples in Europe, North America, and elsewhere, reflecting an approach to reconcile infrastructure with wildlife conservation.