**Target:** Colorado Parks and Wildlife Executive Director, Dan Prenzlow
**Goal:** Prevent the tragic deaths of pronghorns on Colorado roads during severe weather conditions.
The shocking deaths of over 150 pronghorns occurred in eastern Colorado as these animals sought refuge from deep, crusty snow. Tragically, many of them bedded down on rural roads and highways, becoming vulnerable to being struck by vehicles, particularly large trucks. This heartbreaking situation highlights the need for immediate action to protect these animals from further incidents.
The pronghorns, unable to escape quickly from icy roads, were left defenseless, as they prefer to go under fences rather than jumping over them. This preference, combined with the deep snow, has left them trapped and exposed on dangerous roads. Despite the ongoing efforts of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to monitor the herds and remove carcasses from the roads, there remains an urgent need to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of these animals. It is essential to create safe pathways for pronghorns and to provide additional shelter in rural areas to prevent such tragic incidents from happening again.
To address this alarming situation, it is vital to demand that Colorado Parks and Wildlife take the necessary urgent steps to protect pronghorns during severe winter weather. The implementation of effective strategies, such as environmental modifications, public education campaigns, and potentially enhanced fencing options, is crucial in safeguarding these vulnerable animals.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Mr. Prenzlow,
The recent reports of over 150 pronghorns found dead on roads in eastern Colorado are devastating and underscore a profound need for action. These animals, in their desperate search for shelter from heavy snow, tragically ended up on our highways where they were reportedly struck by vehicles. This alarming situation demands a reevaluation of the measures currently in place to protect wildlife from the dangers posed by roadways during severe weather conditions.
As noted, pronghorns are particularly vulnerable; they cannot escape quickly from icy roads and often prefer to slip under fences rather than jumping over them. With snow depths reaching two feet, many have become trapped on the roads. The responsibility lies with us to ensure that these magnificent creatures can safely navigate their environment. Immediate actions, such as collaborating with landowners to clear snow and providing alternative shelter options, are necessary to prevent further tragedies.
We urge Colorado Parks and Wildlife to take decisive steps to implement strategies that will protect pronghorn populations in the face of winter’s challenges. Measures must be established to minimize the risk of wildlife-car collisions and to create safe environments for these animals during severe weather. The time to act is now, to prevent a reoccurrence of this heartbreaking loss of life.
Sincerely,
Your Name Here
Photo credit: Pixabay
