Wyoming Crews Relocated Roadkill to Protect Eagles

Conservation teams moved carcasses from roadways to prevent eagles from colliding with oncoming vehicle traffic.

Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Bird Watching

Wyoming Crews Relocated Roadkill to Protect Eagles

Live Poll

Should local governments prioritize public funding for wildlife protection programs like moving highway roadkill?

Conservation crews in Wyoming have begun moving roadkill at least 12 meters, or 40 feet, away from highways to reduce eagle vehicle strikes. Eagles rely on these carcasses for food during winter months but often fail to clear traffic quickly during takeoff.

Why it matters

Eagles require significant space and time to gain altitude, making them vulnerable when flushing from roadkill near active lanes. Moving carcasses keeps birds away from traffic, potentially mitigating a cause of death for the local eagle population.

Conservationists move carcasses to a distance of 12 meters or 40 feet from the road. Adult eagles reach a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, though survival rates drop to 50% during their first year of life.

The players

Wyoming Department of Transportation

This state agency manages highway maintenance and safety protocols throughout the region.

The details

Crews patrol highway rights of way to identify and relocate carcasses to safer distances without encroaching on private property. Only authorized, paid employees are permitted to perform this work along identified gathering hotspots like U.S. Highway 189 and Wyoming Highway 789.

Winter months represent the period when eagles rely on roadkill as a primary food source.

Culture Shift

This effort follows a pattern set by the historical decline of Golden eagle populations in Wyoming, attempting to address preventable mortality. It highlights a growing shift toward active management in wildlife conservation to protect species long-term.

Drivers in areas like Meeteetse, Cody, and Belfry should remain alert for eagles feeding near road edges. Residents are reminded that carcass dragging is restricted to paid, authorized employees, and should not be attempted by the public.

The takeaway

Wildlife managers emphasize that eagles often struggle to gain altitude quickly when startled by traffic. Drivers can help by keeping a watchful eye for birds near roadways, especially during the winter season.