Moonlight-related mortality: lunar conditions and roadkill occurrence in the Amami Woodcock Scolopax mira

Roadkill occurrence in the endangered Amami Woodcock (Scolopax mira) is strongly influenced by lunar conditions, with mortality peaking during the waxing moon phase, particularly between dusk and midnight. This pattern aligns with the species' nighttime road activity and matches historical roadkill records, especially during its breeding season (February to May). The study also found that 90% of nighttime traffic at hotspots occurs before midnight. These insights suggest that reducing vehicle speed on moonlit nights, particularly several days before a full moon in March, could significantly mitigate roadkill risks for this species. The interplay of woodcock behavior, lunar conditions, and traffic trends provides critical evidence for targeted conservation strategies, highlighting the broader potential impact of moonlight on nocturnal animal-vehicle collisions.

Mizuta, T. (2014). Moonlight-related mortality: lunar conditions and roadkill occurrence in the Amami Woodcock Scolopax mira. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 126(3), 544–552. https://doi.org/10.1676/13-159.1