Wildlife bridges

What are they and why are they so important?

Wildlife bridges, also known as green bridges or wildlife overpasses, are bridges built across roads and railways that allow wildlife to cross and move freely.

Not only do they prevent species from being isolated by connecting habitats, but they reduce the number of road traffic accidents and wildlife mortalities.

They are usually planted with a variety of local trees or shrubs and other vegetation.

They allow birds, mammals, and insects to keep moving despite a road or railway blocking their path.

Rope bridge offers squirrels a safe crossing

According to the BBC, a rope bridge has been hung between trees high over a Highlands road to give red squirrels a safe crossing.

‘Trees for Life’ installed the bridge over a road near Shieldaig in 2017, as part of a reintroduction of red squirrels to the north west Highlands.

The rope bridge allows squirrels to move from different parts of woodland without going on to the road.

Local climber Chris Hingley worked with the charity to install the bridge in June, with support from the Highland Council, Kinloch Woodlands SCIO, and Ben Shieldaig Estate, owners of the land on either side of the road.

A combination of the bridge and road signs appears to be working, according to ‘Trees for Life’.