Roadkill represents a tragic but unavoidable consequence of modern infrastructure. Millions of animals die on roadways each year—estimates range from two to eight million in Brazil alone, with potential figures reaching 194 million across Europe. However, these fatalities aren’t just a grim statistic; they represent a surprisingly valuable, and often overlooked, scientific resource.
The Growing Recognition of Roadkill’s Value
A recent study by biologists at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia surveyed 312 peer-reviewed studies from 67 countries. The findings revealed that roadkill is already used in a diverse range of investigations, and the potential for further application is significant. Researchers can use roadkill to bypass invasive animal handling, aligning with ethical standards that prioritize non-harmful research methods.
How Scientists Are Using Roadkill
The study identified 117 distinct use cases across 650 species, primarily mammals but also including reptiles, birds, amphibians, and invertebrates. Some applications include:
- Mapping species distributions: Roadkill samples provide real-world data on where animals live.
- Monitoring disease and pollution: Tissue samples can reveal environmental contamination levels and disease prevalence.
- Studying diets: Analyzing stomach contents can reveal feeding habits and ecological roles.
- Tracking invasive species: Identifying roadkill helps map the spread of non-native populations.
- Supplementing museum collections: Providing specimens for scientific study and preservation.
The use of roadkill has even led to the discovery of previously unknown or thought-extinct species in certain areas.
Addressing Concerns and Future Potential
While roadkill isn’t suitable for all research due to biosafety concerns (decomposition, potential disease transmission), the study’s authors argue that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The alternative—letting valuable biological material decompose unused—is a missed opportunity.
“Using these losses wisely could help drive scientific discovery and conservation forward,” says RMIT biologist Christa Beckmann.
The systematic utilization of roadkill as a scientific resource represents a sustainable and ethical approach to data collection, potentially accelerating ecological understanding and conservation efforts.
