Over 100 Pronghorns Dead in Eastern Colorado Following Devastating Snowstorm

In the wake of a significant snowstorm that swept across eastern Colorado, a troubling aftermath has emerged on the roads. According to

Denver7

, an alarming loss of wildlife with over 100 pronghorns, a species known for its remarkable speed, is now being counted among the casualties. The snowstorm, which deposited upwards of 40 inches in certain areas, has had a severe impact on these ungulates, with 52 fatalities being reported on US 36 east of Byers alone.

According to Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), pronghorns often gather on roadways post-snowstorms, seeking the relative warmth of the pavement over the insulating snow that blankets their natural grassland habitats. Laden with fresh powder, the storm made it particularly challenging for the pronghorns to navigate their usual range, often blocked by high snow from crawling under fences as is their tendency. This behavior has tragically resulted in a spike in roadkill incidents. Sharing graphic images on social media, CPW has brought the situation to public attention, as cited by

KKTV

, highlighting the seriousness of the aftermath.

Meanwhile, the Colorado Wildlife & Transportation Alliance mentioned by Denver7, has previously recognized the need for infrastructural changes in the region. A wildlife crossing near Byers was identified as a top priority project in 2023 to mitigate such incidents. Yet, the recent events serve as a grim reminder that the necessary interventions are still pending, and wildlife continues to pay the price.

In response to the situation, CPW has issued a plea urging drivers to remain vigilant for pronghorns that could be standing or sleeping on the roads, particularly at nighttime.

KDVR

reported that CPW has also requested local landowners to help by plowing fields to offer these creatures a haven off the streets. While CPW officers are tasked with managing herds and clearing carcasses, the limit to their resources and reach can only do so much in the shadows cast by such natural events whose toll extends well beyond human communities.

Note: Thank you for visiting our website! We strive to keep you informed with the latest updates based on expected timelines, although please note that we are not affiliated with any official bodies. Our team is committed to ensuring accuracy and transparency in our reporting, verifying all information before publication. We aim to bring you reliable news, and if you have any questions or concerns about our content, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!