Through the Lens with Colton Johnstone: Week Three

August 20, 2018

Week Three: August 6 to 10, 2018

When you think about wildlife monitoring it is unlikely that a road is the first place that comes to mind. Road ecology is the study of the impacts of roadways on ecosystems. Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) is conducting a road ecology study that aims to inform mitigation of road impacts and assess the long term effectiveness of implemented crossing structures on habitat connectivity and wildlife movement. TRCA’s Environmental Monitoring team regularly heads out to a number of sites in the jurisdiction where they survey the roads to see what species are present. After putting out safety signs and pylons they equip themselves with a tablet, scraper and steel brush to examine roadkill as well as record any sightings of wildlife crossings.

The warmth of the road serves as a major attractant to wildlife, especially ectothermic reptiles and amphibians that use the warm pavement to raise their body temperature.  Many reptiles and amphibians also travel back and forth from forest sites to wetlands for breeding and overwintering.  As a result many reptiles and amphibians do not survive. This is a picture of an unfortunate toad that was crushed by passing cars.

Road ecology surveys take place during the day and night as many wildlife species are nocturnal.  On rainy nights, there is more wildlife activity so not many critters are able to make the journey safely. Health and safety is very important to the team as they patrol the road with their lights and reflector vests.

The reality is that road mortality is an issue for regional wildlife in Toronto and region.  It is important to obey the speed limits and try and avoid harming wildlife where possible.