The N-332 highway, passing through Elche, has become a danger zone for wildlife. In just over ten days, two foxes were killed on a stretch near El Altet, an area recognized for its significant ecological value. These incidents highlight the urgent need to improve road safety for wildlife in this natural corridor connecting sites like Clot de Galvany, Agua Amarga salt flats, and Fondet de la Senieta.
Jesús Climent, a resident of Gran Alacant and a regular user of the road, witnessed these events firsthand, finding one fox dead heading towards Gran Alacant and another in the opposite direction near the El Altet tunnel. Climent expresses concern, believing the problem is no longer isolated and warning that the road acts as a barrier, fragmenting habitats and forcing animals to cross the asphalt.
Local residents link these roadkill incidents to the breeding season, when adult animals travel more to feed their young, increasing their risk of encountering traffic. They are calling for greater driver awareness and specific signage at critical points to reduce the mortality of species vital to the local ecosystem.
Human pressure on the area, including increased traffic and urban development, is cited as an aggravating factor. Climent criticizes the urban expansion in Gran Alacant, which has led to the loss of natural spaces and further fragmentation of the territory, endangering wildlife.
The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is a common species in El Clot de Galvany, a protected natural area of 360 hectares managed by Aigües d’Elx. Despite their elusive nature, direct sightings have increased in recent years. The park's educational materials already noted the frequent discovery of roadkill victims on nearby roads, particularly around the central pond and dune systems.
The fox plays a significant ecological role as a seed disperser and a regulator of other animal populations. Its adaptability to various food sources makes it vulnerable in human-dominated areas. The N-332 cuts through a territory crucial for wildlife, where these animals move, feed, breed, and seek shelter.
