In the first six months of 2015, another 1,642 animals met their fate on Korean roads. This means that an average of seven animals were hit by cars on the highway every day. (image: Yonhap)
GIMHAE, Sept. 1 (Korea Bizwire) – A total of 12,605 wild animals have been killed on Korean highways over the past five years. The number clearly states that measures should be taken to prevent road kill.
In the first six months of 2015, another 1,642 animals met their fate on Korean roads. This means that an average of seven animals were hit by cars on the highway every day.
Elks were the biggest victims of road kill, with 10,952 victims representing an 89 percent share of the total number of casualties.
Raccoons ranked second with 966 deaths, followed by 218 boars, 147 Korean hares and 111 badgers. In addition, endangered species such as weasels (41 deaths) and beavers (15 deaths) were also affected.
Though wild animals are sacrificed every year, a fence set up by the Korea Expressway Corporation over the past five years is only 569.9 kilometers long.
Among the 4,147 kilometers or roads that require fences, only 1,487 kilometers are covered, showing a 35.8 percent installation rate.
Ecological corridors for wild animals on highways are only installed in 66 areas, and 13 routes were reported to have none.
Authorities highlight the importance of setting means to prevent road kills. “It is a very urgent matter since endangered species are also being killed. Installing safety facilities on the highways is important, but also the caution of drivers is required.”
By Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
