Road Ecology Center

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PENNDOT) District 3-0 initiated a study in North Central Pennsylvania evaluating existing bridges and culverts for use as underpasses by wildlife. This project was a two-phase study to investigate animal passage through existing drainage box culverts, arch culverts and bridges on existing highway systems. The objective of this study was to (1) determine whether wildlife are using existing structures as passageways based on wildlife sign and remote camera monitoring and (2) determine underpass dimensions, interior characteristics, location, topography, and adjacent habitat features that contribute to and enhance usage of underpass corridors by wildlife. These data will contribute to future highway design and mitigation measures in addressing wildlife corridors.