The first results are in from the motorist survey of wildlife in the Interstate 90 corridor.
A wide variety of animals travel the I-90 corridor, such as this black bear.
Photo courtesy Western Transportation Institute
Sponsored by Western Transportation Institute and the I-90 Wilidlife Bridges Coalition and other partners, the survey is intended to better understand the animals using the corridor between North Bend and Easton. Motorists were asked to count any wildlife they see — dead or alive — and report it for the survey, launched in November 2010.
Elk are one of the most frequently seen animals in the I-90 corridor — and one of the most dangerous to encounter in a collision. Crossing structures under construction on I-90 will make the highway safer for animals and drivers. Photo courtesy Western Transportation Institute
The results were encouraging in this respect: Motorists saw a wide variety of wildlife, from turkeys to skunks to elk. And most of the sightings were of live animals, not roadkill.
Coyotes were seen by many drivers. Photo courtesy Western Transportation Institute
In its first 12 months, the website received 6,821 visits from all 50 states in the U.S., and 29 other countries. The vast majority of visits (83%) originated in Washington. Visitors reported 240 valid (i.e., presumed authentic) wildlife sightings made in the survey area during the first year, comprising a total of 529 live and dead animals. Sightings included both mammals and birds, with deer and elk dominating the mammals list. Of 475 mammals reported, 423 were alive and 52 were dead.
Most of the animals reported by drivers were seen alive. Photo courtesy Western Transportation Initiative
To participate in the survey yourself, check out this link. The survey will continue for at least another year.
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