Roadkill of Eastern Newts (Notophthalmus viridescens) in a protected area in Quebec

Abstract

Roadkill is a threat to populations of many amphibian species, including Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens), which is widespread in eastern Canada and the northeastern United States. Little is known about the level of road mortality experienced by dispersing Eastern Newts in Canada. During extensive road surveys from May to October 2016 and 2017, 279 dead Eastern Newt efts were found on roads in Gatineau Park, Quebec. We found 107 dead Eastern Newts along a 425 m section of road in 2016, but only 30 dead individuals at the same location in 2017. Thus, although the amount of roadkill can vary annually, it may pose a significant threat to the species in some areas.