Análise de pontos críticos e efetividade de medidas mitigadoras para a redução de atropelamentos de fauna no Distrito Federal

Abstract

The mortality of wildlife due to roadkill is a global issue that poses a serious threat to biodiversity, especially in regions with high ecological richness. In the Federal District, Brazil, this phenomenon is exacerbated by the expansion of road infrastructure and the increase in the number of vehicles. This study investigates the impacts of wildlife roadkill in the Federal District, aiming to identify critical points (hotspots) and evaluate the effectiveness of implemented mitigation measures. Using data collected by the Rodofauna Project between April 2010 and March 2012, several hotspots were identified near major conservation units, such as the Águas Emendadas Ecological Station (ESECAE), Brasília National Park (PNB), Brasília Botanical Garden (JBB), Reserva Ecológica do IBGE (IBGE) and the Fazenda Água Limpa da Universidade de Brasília (FAL). Through spatial analyses and field inspections, ecological corridors and key habitat reas for wildlife were mapped, facilitating the strategic placement of wildlife crossings and guiding fences. The evaluation of existing wildlife crossings and fences revealed that while promising, these strategies face significant maintenance challenges, especially in urban areas. This study concludes that more effective and continuous actions are necessary to reduce wildlife mortality, including the expansion of mitigation measures, improvements in the maintenance of existing structures, and educational campaigns for drivers. Additionally, the implementation of robust public policies and the integration of advanced monitoring technologies are recommended to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of mitigation strategies. The results of this study provide valuable insights for the formulation of public policies and conservation strategies, promoting a sustainable balance between road development and biodiversity preservation in the Federal District.