The Wild with Chris Morgan
Ben Goldfarb: How America’s roads alter our ecology
Jun 4, 2024
Ben Goldfarb, an environmental journalist and author of "Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of our Planet," unravels the surprising toll roads take on wildlife. He reveals that a staggering one million animals are killed daily on U.S. roads, and discusses the urgent need to address habitat disruption and road noise's impact on both human health and animal behavior. Goldfarb also highlights innovative wildlife overpass projects aimed at boosting genetic diversity and ensuring safe animal migrations, painting a vivid picture of our interconnected ecosystems.
42:22
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Quick takeaways
- Cliff swallows are rapidly evolving shorter wings due to highways, showcasing how road ecology influences animal genetics in real-time.
- Traffic noise pollution significantly disrupts wildlife communication and health, demonstrating critical challenges for species survival amid urban development.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Cliff Swallows and Road Impact
Cliff swallows are undergoing notable evolutionary changes due to the presence of highways. Research indicates these birds that nest under highway bridges are developing shorter wings, which help them maneuver and avoid being struck by vehicles, compared to their longer-winged counterparts. This rapid evolution, driven by a powerful selective pressure from traffic, highlights how roads not only alter their immediate environment but can also influence animal genetics in a relatively short timeframe. Such findings exemplify the concept of road ecology, which investigates the effects of roads on wildlife and ecosystems.
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