Directions: Use the information provided and your knowledge of Life Science to answer the following questions. Show all work where necessary.
Directions: Use the information provided and your knowledge of Life Science to answer the following questions. Show all work where necessary.
Highways and urban development fragment wildlife habitats, separating animal populations and creating barriers to migration and breeding. This fragmentation often leads to increased roadkill, reduced genetic diversity, and shrinking populations for species such as deer, bears, cougars, and amphibians.
To solve this, conservation agencies and engineers have constructed wildlife corridors - bridges and underpasses that allow animals to safely cross roads and reconnect fragmented habitats. These corridors are often landscaped with vegetation to mimic the surrounding environment, encouraging natural movement patterns.
Long-term data from Banff National Park (Canada), Florida Panther crossings (U.S.), and Netherlands ecoducts demonstrate the effectiveness of these structures:
In Banff, more than 150,000 successful animal crossings were recorded between 1996 and 2020.
Roadkill in the corridor zones dropped by over 80%.
Genetic studies show that animal populations on both sides of highways are now interbreeding again, increasing genetic diversity.
Although wildlife corridors are highly effective at reducing collisions and reconnecting habitats, they can be costly to build and maintain. Their merit lies in their proven success for multiple species and their contribution to ecosystem connectivity - helping ensure long-term survival in landscapes altered by human infrastructure.
Make a claim, provide evidence, and explain your reasoning for the statement:
“Wildlife corridors are an effective solution to habitat fragmentation, improving both safety and genetic connectivity for animals.”
Respond with a clear claim, at least one piece of evidence from the passage or data, and reasoning that links the evidence to your claim.
Use Table 1 in the Wildlife Corridors Across Roads resource.
Describe how animal-vehicle collisions and successful crossings change over time.
Why do wildlife corridors help animals survive better?
Which statement shows how habitat fragmentation affects animal survival?
Explain how wildlife corridors can influence animal behavior in ways that improve survival.