We consider small mammals as shrews and moles, small marsupials, hedgehogs, mice and rats, and other rodents, rabbits, and hares commonly designated as ‘prey species’ (ie, those weighing <5 kg). For these species, roads typically have negative, often detrimental impacts, but in a few circumstances roads may be beneficial, making road mitigation strategies for this group slightly more complex than for other taxa. For example, roads and traffic typically act as barriers to the movement of individuals, while road verges may provide suitable habitat within otherwise degraded areas. This chapter illustrates the complex relationship between roads and small mammals and suggests possible road management and mitigation solutions.
Road building may result in complete losses of habitat, territories and individuals.
Roads may filter small mammal movements and reduce genetic exchange.
The effect of roadkills on small mammal population persistence is often unknown.
Fenced verges may provide benefits for small mammals.
Crossing structures for small mammals must be optimally located and connected to surrounding habitat.
Road verges should be diverse and contain natural structure.
Despite numerous road ecology studies on small mammals, we lack information on several key points, particularly on the impact of roads on genetic exchange and the impact of roadkills for small mammal population persistence. Nevertheless, our current knowledge of small mammal ecology should allow road planners to avoid or mitigate the main negative impact of roads while encouraging the positive attributes of roads for small mammals.
Roads, Traffic and Verges
Big Problems and Big Opportunities for Small Mammals
Handbook of Road Ecology ; 325-333
2015-04-01
9 pages
Article/Chapter (Book)
Electronic Resource
English
road verges , barrier effect , prey , mitigation , roadkills , predator , habitat loss
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