How Roads Affect Wildlife and the Environment

Provided by: Mongabay Kids |Published on: May 8, 2026

Articles/Websites

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Synopsis

This illustrated article explains how roads impact plants, animals, and their habitats.
The article incorporates examples from ecosystems around the world and introduces key ecological concepts such as habitat fragmentation and wildlife corridors.
This is Part 1 of a series. Teachers can find Part 2 here.

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Subjects: Science

Authors: Mongabay Kids

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Prerequisites:

Consider defining the terms noise pollution, light pollution, erosion, and invasive plants.

Classroom Implementation:

Activate students' background knowledge by asking what they have already experienced or seen when it comes to animals and roads.
Consider providing a graphic organizer to help students note the impacts of roads on the environment.

Literacy Connections:

If students are unfamiliar with the terms erosion or fragmentation, have them use the context clues in this reading to construct a definition of the term.
Discuss how the illustrations helped provide information or clarify information that was in the text.

Extensions:

Connect to local context by asking students to examine satellite imagery of their community and identify roads that may bisect natural areas.
Have students research one animal species affected by road fragmentation in their region and propose a mitigation strategy.

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About the Partner Provider

Mongabay Kids

Mongabay Kids is the dedicated youth education initiative at Mongabay, an award-winning nonprofit environmental and conservation news organization. We provide free, age-appropriate news, features, activities, and multimedia resources that inspire curiosity, ecological understanding, and action. Designed for children ages 8-14, families, and educators, Mongabay Kids empowers the next generation to explore, celebrate, and protect the natural world.

Scientist Reviewed

This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.

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How Roads Affect Wildlife and the Environment

Synopsis

Teaching Materials

About the Partner Provider

Scientist Reviewed

Related Teaching Resources