A statistical GIS-based analysis of Wild boar (Sus scrofa) traffic collisions in a Mediterranean area

Abstract

vThis study was aimed at analysing the most relevant environmental variables involved in vehicle–wild boar road collisions in a Mediterranean area, starting from a territorial information system implemented in a GIS environment. Landscape structure indices and local qualitative and quantitative variables were correlated to identify the most frequent predisposing factors of collisions. Statistical tests of the considered parameters indicated a higher frequency of collisions in the evening hours of late summer and autumn (P<0.05) compared with daytime and night-time, localized nearness to attraction points (feeding or resting sites; P<0.001) and closeness to no-hunting areas (P<0.001). In addition, local road parameters (shape of road, visibility at road sides, etc.) considerably increased the risk of collisions.