Wildlife Crossing: Giving Animals the Right of Way

Part of the nonfiction Orca Footprints series for middle-grade readers, this book explores the science of road ecology and what happens when highways, wildlife and habitats intersect. Illustrated with photographs throughout.



What happens when the needs of people and nature collide?



More than 13 million miles of roads crisscross landscapes in 222 countries. Roads offer many human benefits, but they also create problems for nature. Their construction leads to a loss of biodiversity through habitat loss, fragmentation and degradation. Roads isolate wildlife populations, impede migration and allow invasive plant and animal species to spread, while giving rise to pollution from garbage, light, noise and airborne contaminants. With innovative tools, like wildlife overpasses to reconnect landscapes, smart roads and vehicles to maximize safety, and a little hands on help, we can create environmental harmony. And sitting in the passenger seat, young people can play a part in helping highways and habitats coexist.