An objective road risk assessment method for multiple species: ranking 166 reptiles and amphibians in California

摘要: Transportation and wildlife agencies may consider the need for barrier structures safe road-crossings to maintain long-term viability of populations. In order prioritize these efforts, it is important identify species that are most at risk extirpation from road-related impacts. Our goal was reptiles amphibians in California susceptible road mortality fragmentation. With over 160 a lack species-specific research data, we developed an objective assessment method based upon ecology science. Risk scoring suite life history space-use characteristics associated with negative effects applied hierarchical manner individuals species. We evaluated both aquatic terrestrial connectivity calculated buffer distances encompass 95% population-level movements. ranked into five relative categories (very-high very-low) 20% increments all scores. All chelonids, 72% snakes, 50% anurans, 18% lizards 17% salamander were high or very-high Results largely consistent local global scientific literature identifying groups. This comparative provides science-based framework The results can inform regional-scale mitigation planning prioritization efforts threat assessments special-status believe this approach applicable numerous landscapes taxonomic groups.