Our recent survey of the literature revealed a need for significant improvement in how road ecology studies should be designed and conducted if we are to achieve real-world impact beyond the research. We developed a framework that aims to assist road ecologists and transport practitioners in conducting research that will make meaningful contributions to the evolution of the field and have real-world applications.

Bird collisions with overhead powerlines is one of the most significant human causes of bird mortality worldwide, with estimates in the millions of birds killed annually and contributing to the decline of many species. We undertook a comprehensive literature review and identified the factors that increased bird collision risk with power lines, the existing mitigation measures, and remaining knowledge gaps.

Bird mortality through collision and electrocution are probably the most well-known ecological impacts of overhead power lines. However, our systematic review identified at least 26 other potential impacts on biodiversity that should be considered during ecological impact assessments. We developed a logical framework to help practitioners systematically identify and assess the potential ecological impacts of powerlines.

Great Britain has seen traffic levels increase while bird species are declining but there is limited understanding about this link. This study assessed the spatial associations between roads and birds across Britain.

Around ~194 million birds and ~29 million mammals could be killed each year on European roads, and some species are particularly vulnerable to additional mortality even with low rates of roadkill.