Story perspectives

Over 5,000 Animals Killed: New Wildlife Crossings Planned

9/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A Wildlands Network study reports over 5,000 vertebrates killed on U.S. 64 in North Carolina's Alligator River Wildlife Refuge from August 2024 to July 2025.
The report emphasizes the need for wildlife crossings to reduce vehicle strikes, especially for critically endangered red wolves.
A $25 million grant from U.S. Federal Highways will fund crossings at a red wolf hotspot, with an additional $4 million in matching funds.
Construction is set to begin in late 2026, focusing on elevating the road for climate resiliency.
Current data will establish a new baseline for evaluating future wildlife crossing proposals and reducing wolf strikes.

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Story summary

A Wildlands Network study reports over 5,000 vertebrates killed on U.S. 64 in North Carolina's Alligator River Wildlife Refuge from August 2024 to July 2025.
The report emphasizes the need for wildlife crossings to reduce vehicle strikes, especially for critically endangered red wolves.
A $25 million grant from U.S. Federal Highways will fund crossings at a red wolf hotspot, with an additional $4 million in matching funds.
Construction is set to begin in late 2026, focusing on elevating the road for climate resiliency.
Current data will establish a new baseline for evaluating future wildlife crossing proposals and reducing wolf strikes.