A new study of roadkill in New Jersey is providing insights into how wildlife moves around the state—and how some species are more likely to be killed by cars than others.

The study, conducted by researchers at the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), analyzed data on more than 30,000 animals that were killed by cars on state roads between 2008 and 2017. The researchers found that the most common roadkill species were white-tailed deer, raccoons, opossums, and squirrels.

The study also found that roadkill was more common in rural areas than in urban areas, and that it was more common at night than during the day. This suggests that wildlife is more likely to be killed by cars when they are moving around in search of food or shelter.

The researchers also found that some species were more likely to be killed by cars than others. For example, white-tailed deer were the most common roadkill species, but they were also the most likely to be killed by cars at night. This suggests that deer are particularly vulnerable to being hit by cars when they are moving around at night.

The study's findings can help the DEP to identify areas where wildlife is most likely to be killed by cars. This information can be used to design and implement measures to reduce roadkill, such as installing wildlife crossings and warning signs.

The study can also help wildlife rehabilitators to identify the species that are most likely to be injured or killed by cars. This information can help rehabilitators to target their efforts and to provide the best possible care for injured animals.

Overall, the study provides valuable insights into how wildlife moves around New Jersey, and how some species are more likely to be killed by cars than others. This information can be used to help reduce roadkill and to protect wildlife in the Garden State.