Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/grand-teton-wildlife-killed-by-vehicles/

“Don’t kill your wildlife,” urges Grand Teton National Park officials after 10 animals were killed in the past two weeks.

The park is home to countless animal species that range from bison to waterfowl and everything in between. It is a privilege to be able to drive along the scenic roads and witness the animals in their natural habitat.

But every year roughly 100 animals are hit and killed by vehicles.

Many of the deaths could have been prevented if people would simply slow down and pay more attention.

Park officials issued a press release after “five bison, one elk, one mule deer, one pronghorn, one coyote and one wolf pup were hit and killed by vehicles traveling on park roads,” in two weeks.

They ask all locals and visitors to help protect the wild animals by “practicing vigilance” while driving through the park.

2021 is the busiest year on record for Grand Teton with 3,493,937 recreation visits in the first 9 months. As more people head to the park, officials are working on ways to protect and preserve the animals, their environment, and the visitor experience.

Fall is a busy time at the park for both the animals and visitors. As the cooler weather arrives, many animals begin to migrate and are seen along roadways and crossing roads. People head to the park to witness the magnificent animals and beautiful fall foliage.

Drivers should travel at the posted speed limit of 45 mph (which some believe is still too fast) or below and be on the lookout for wild animals.

Around the next corner a mother bear could be crossing the road with her cubs, or an elk could unexpectedly pop out of the brush and into the road.

Rangers say to pay extra caution at dawn, dusk, and during the night when visibility is reduced.

Those that abide by the rules and take extra precautions at the park are heartbroken by the loss of animal life. Many shared personal experiences they had with speeding drivers and pleaded for people to slow down.

One person asked, “How do you not see a bison?” According to a National Park Service employee, “The bison were hit at night. The guy was going about 80mph and ran into a herd of them.”

While accidents happen, you can help save lives by slowing down and staying alert as you take in the beautiful scenery around you.

Remember, we are guests and need to courteous to the animals that call the park home.

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog