In all, six endangered Florida panthers - about 8 percent of the entire remaining population have been killed on highways so far this year. That's the worst death rate in 18 years. Two 10 month-old siblings were killed within hours of each other. There are no fences or underpasses for panthers on Slaughter Alley. Defenders of Wildlife is helping by providing highway warning signs and handouts to be distributed to drivers at toll booths and elsewhere.
Defenders supports efforts to make roads less dangerous to wildlife.
Also, we are working with state and local authorities to plan for the growth of communities to avoid or minimize the harm from future roads on wildlife and habitat. Reduce the impact of roads and highways on wildlife and habitat. Existing roads should be modified where necessary to allow wildlife to cross, and minimize impact on the surrounding environment. Incorporate wildlife conservation into transportation planning. Future road development should avoid wildlife habitats and environmentally sensitive places.