Distribution and Abundance of Wildlife Roadkills in Jengka, Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia

• Published in: Malaysian Journal of Fundamental and Applied Sciences
• Main Author: Hamzah N.E.F.; Nizam K.S.; Zainol N.; Ghulamuddin N.J.A.; Farinordin F.A.; Abidin K.Z.; Ismail N.A.; Izam N.A.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Penerbit UTM Press 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85208376388&doi=10.11113%2fmjfas.v20n5.3576&partnerID=40&md5=0cad2799b7857dcc168084a8c634c2ef

Malaysia's growing transportation network has increased human impact on wildlife habitats, causing a rise in roadkill cases. This study aims to assess the distribution and abundance of roadkill in Jengka, Pahang. Surveys along selected roads for ten days in March 2022 recorded 72 incidents (0.36 roadkill km-1). The water monitor (Varanus salvator) was the most frequently recorded species with 12 incidents, while the least frequently recorded species, each with 1 incident, included the monocled cobra (Naja kaouthia) and the house rat (Rattus rattus). Species of particular concern based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List Categories included the long-tailed macaque (Macaca fascicularis) (Endangered), clouded monitor lizard (Varanus nebulosus) (Near Threatened), and Malayan flat-shelled turtle (Notochelys platynota) (Vulnerable). Main Federal Roads, particularly Jalan Bukit Tajau - Bandar Pusat Jengka (FT62) and Jalan Utama Jengka Utara/Selatan (FT83), had notable roadkill rates of 0.73 and 0.35 per kilometer, respectively. Jalan FELDA 25 (FT1553), linking Bandar Tun Abdul Razak to Jerantut and Kuala Krau, recorded the highest rate at 0.78 roadkill per kilometer, highlighting the need for attention. Proposed actions include wildlife crossings, wildlife warning reflectors and wildlife warning signs in hotspots, and table drains alongside roads. It is also essential to educate drivers on the importance of reducing speed, especially in wildlife crossing zones, to minimize incidents. These findings stress the importance of proactive measures in reducing roadkill and safeguarding wildlife in Jengka, urging collaborative efforts to enhance road safety for both humans and animals. ©Copyright Hamzah.