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Wildlife crossings, also known as eco-bridges, play a vital role in the safety of animals and motorists in many parts of the world. These structures help to reduce the number of wildlife accidents while also helping to maintain the natural habitat of animals. The history of eco-bridges dates back to 1950, when the first bridge was built in France.
Since then, these bridges, and other similar structures such as wildlife crossings, drainage systems or tunnels, have become increasingly common around the world. They are particularly widespread in Europe, where the Netherlands, for example, has the world's longest eco-bridge. In North America, there are also many similar initiatives, including dozens of crossings in Canada's Banff National Park. Interesting examples in the article include the bee highway project in Norway, which provides bees with safe nesting and feeding facilities. And on Christmas Island in Australia, plastic crossings and temporary road closures are being used to support the safe migration of red crabs. In Massachusetts, salamanders are protected by small tunnels through which they can safely cross roads. Eco-bridges are effective not only in preventing accidents but also in maintaining ecological balance.
For example, in Colorado, an 87% reduction in wildlife accidents is proof of the success of such bridges. However, developing such solutions requires serious planning and extensive collaboration. The article cites New Zealand as a particular example, where volunteers have built an underground tunnel for little blue penguins, helping them to cross busy roads safely. In conclusion, eco-hydration and similar conservation solutions are crucial to promoting the harmonious coexistence of animals and humans, and the article gives some excellent examples from different countries to demonstrate their effectiveness.
