Amphibian Road Mortality and How to Prevent It: A Review

Abstract

Mortality of amphibians on roads is a problem from an animal welfare and conservation perspective.
We review methods to reduce road mortality of amphibians that have been used since the early 1970s in European countries, mainly Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, and we discuss advantages and disadvantages of these methods.
No method works best for all species and situations. Although most methods work well for anurans on their way to breeding sites, they are substantially less efficient for juveniles and Triturus newts. Underpasses (“toad tunnels”) are a common technical solution to prevent amphibian road mortality. We present details on the construction of tunnels and associated barrier walls. We also suggest measures to evaluate the efficiency of tunnels and barrier walls. The prevention of road mortality is the first goal, but from a conservation perspective long-term population viability is the more important goal. We conclude by suggesting several areas for future research, namely the use of underpasses by
juveniles and newts.