Special Tunnels Built Under Highway so Tarantulas Can Mate Safely
In the state of Colorado, USA, an intriguing yet perilous tarantula activity occurs every autumn, prompting scientists to take action. The aim is to protect hundreds of male tarantulas, who meet their end under vehicles while attempting to cross highways to mate with female tarantulas. The plan is to construct special tunnels and underpasses beneath the roads for their safe passage.
In the project spearheaded by Dr. Richard Reading, the Deputy Director of Science and Conservation, the period extending from the end of August until the beginning of October is characterized as a "mating mobilization".
Male tarantulas, in their collective quest for a mate, are forced to cross highways, emerging from their dense nests along the roadside. Due to tarantula populations reaching up to 70 per acre in some regions, hundreds of eight-legged suitors tragically lose their lives under the wheels of vehicles each year before they can find their mate.
Dr. Reading and his team are collaborating with the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) on a project to ensure these tiny creatures can cross safely. The researchers, who have noted the effectiveness of large wildlife bridges for colossal animals like deer, suggest constructing small culvert-like underpasses for tarantulas, turtles, reptiles, and amphibians. The plans also include the installation of special barriers along the roadsides to guide the creatures into these tunnels.
In order to determine the project's feasibility and the most appropriate locations, special motion-sensor cameras will be installed along the highway routes.
This pilot study, which is aimed to commence before the end of the year, will identify the routes most frequently used by tarantulas and the locations where the highest number of deaths occur.
Particularly during this natural event that peaks around mid-September near the Comanche National Grasslands south of La Junta (U.S. Highway 109), the goal is to ensure tarantulas can reach their mates safely and without being crushed, thanks to the new tunnels to be established.
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