Pennsylvania is taking steps to support its wildlife population through the implementation of wildlife corridors. House Resolution 87, which passed with bipartisan support last year, called for a report on the use of wildlife corridors to protect wildlife and prevent collisions between animals and humans. The report, released by the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee in June, sheds light on the importance of habitat connectivity in the state.
Sally Sims, a consultant and cofounder of Pennsylvania Habitat Connectivity, has been advocating for wildlife corridors for the past five years. She explains that habitat connectivity is crucial for species to find food, mates, and rest areas, as well as to migrate across landscapes. With increasing development, climate change, and invasive species threatening wildlife habitats, ensuring that the landscape remains permeable for animals to move is essential for their survival.
Fragmented habitats due to the lack of wildlife corridors can lead to reduced mating opportunities, genetic inbreeding, and disruptions in the ecosystem. Climate change further exacerbates the challenges faced by wildlife, affecting their ability to find suitable habitats and resources. As a result, wildlife corridors play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and allowing species to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Wildlife corridors can take various forms, from physical structures like highway overpasses to connected lands with designated safe passages for animals. Fencing is also used to direct animals away from roads and towards safe crossing points. In Pennsylvania, efforts are being made to establish wildlife corridors for species like bobcats and whitetail deer to reduce vehicle collisions and promote safe movement across the landscape.
The report highlights the alarming number of wildlife-vehicle collisions reported in the state, with thousands of deer-related incidents and several fatalities in a single year. Improving data collection and reporting mechanisms is crucial to understanding the extent of the issue and implementing effective solutions to prevent such accidents in the future.
One of the key recommendations in the report is the establishment of an ecological connectivity working group comprising key natural resource agencies and their partners. By prioritizing habitat connectivity and coordinating efforts among various stakeholders, Pennsylvania can develop a comprehensive plan for wildlife corridors and access federal funding to support conservation initiatives.
Overall, the focus on habitat connectivity in Pennsylvania underscores the importance of preserving wildlife habitats and promoting coexistence between humans and animals. By working together to prioritize conservation efforts and values, the state can create a more sustainable environment for its diverse wildlife population.
