Protecting Wildlife

The boundaries and verges of Scotland’s trunk road network provide a valuable habitat that supports a rich variety of wildlife.

Squirrel after a road strike

Some species are common throughout the UK whilst others are of national or international importance and carry the relevant protected status.

Road verges provide a vital resource that supports plant and animal communities that in some cases may struggle to survive in the context of intensive farming practices and an increasing demand for development land.

Scotland ’s trunk road network supports approximately 40% of all national traffic movements. The potential conflict between traffic and animals not only represents a welfare issue for the animals concerned but can also be a risk to motorists.

The main species of concern are:

• Otter
• Badger
• Red Squirrel
• Deer (red, roe, sika & fallow)
• Barn Owl
• Other Birds of Prey

Potential conflict with wildlife is an issue that Transport Scotland takes very seriously, whether during:

• the planning, design and construction of new road schemes, or
• the day-to-day maintenance of the existing trunk road network.

We ensure wherever possible, that any management interventions are designed to meet the complex balance of:

• protecting and enhancing roadside biodiversity
• respecting and integrating with the wider environment, and
• responding to the needs and safety of drivers.

The trunk road Operating Companies, who maintain the network on our behalf, are required to maintain records of wild animal road casualties. This information is analysed to determine where specific movement patterns occur and to identify ‘hot-spots’ of activity that require further investigation. The data is then used in the development of mitigation proposals aimed at reducing the risk to both animal species and road users.

Working with You

We hold regular liaison meetings with other agencies and organisations, both public and private. Together, we aim to respond to all environmental matters, whether of a local, regional or national scale, in the swiftest and most appropriate manner. Any mitigation will always have respect for the natural characteristics and local distinctiveness of the environment within which we operate.

We also work closely with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) in relation to the management and impact of wild deer on trunk roads. This includes use of Variable Message Signs to display warnings to motorists. The signs are activated at appropriate times of the year and warn drivers of the potential risk of deer. Our collaboration with SNH also extends to a multi-agency liaison for issues relating to roe deer in urban-fringe areas.