Keep South Carolina Wild
Habitat connectivity is defined as the degree to which the landscape facilitates or impedes animal movement and other ecological processes, such as seed dispersal. In an increasingly fragmented landscape, it’s essential to protect, connect and manage lands for the benefit of wildlife.
SCWF works to encourage landowners to enhance wildlife habitat, and spread the word to their neighbors to increase connectivity. Land conservation programs with SC state agencies and land trusts amplify these efforts to a large scale. We must all work together to re-connect critical wildlife habitats.
One type of project to re-establish connectivity is wildlife crossings – either over or under new and existing roads.
Roads crisscross the landscape where American black bear, white-tailed deer and many other species still attempt to follow ancient wildlife corridors, imperiling both the animals and the humans who navigate them.
Life is altered for both plants and animals when roads are nearby. Besides the risk of dying in attempts to cross, individual animals are disturbed by noise, light, and air pollution from roads near their habitats.
Benefits of Wildlife Crossings: