Wildtierunterführungen

Wildtierunterführungen, also known as wildlife underpasses or wildlife crossings, are structures designed to allow animals to safely cross roads or other human infrastructure. These crossings are typically built beneath roads and are often vegetated to blend in with the natural landscape, encouraging animals to use them. The primary goal of wildtierunterführungen is to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions, which pose a danger to both animals and drivers, and to maintain ecological connectivity by allowing animals to move between fragmented habitats.

The effectiveness of these structures depends on various factors, including their size, location, design, and the species they are intended to benefit. Smaller animals may use culverts, while larger mammals require wider and taller passages. Studies have shown that well-designed and strategically placed underpasses can significantly reduce the number of wildlife fatalities on roads and facilitate the movement of diverse species. Successful implementation often involves a combination of underpasses, overpasses (wildlife bridges), and fencing to guide animals towards the safe crossing points. Monitoring wildlife usage and adapting designs based on observations are crucial for optimizing their function. Wildtierunterführungen are an important component of modern infrastructure planning aimed at mitigating the impact of human development on wildlife populations.