GPS Collars Reveal How Fences Block Pronghorn Migration

Scientists have fitted 75 pronghorns with GPS collars near a solar project in New Mexico to study how fences affect their movement. Pronghorns are the fastest land animals in the Americas, capable of running at speeds over 50 miles per hour. Researchers found that fences around the solar farm create a major barrier for these animals. Unlike deer that jump over fences, pronghorns prefer to crawl under them. This behavior limits their access to traditional migration routes and can lead to population declines. The study suggests that simple modifications to fences, such as raising the bottom wire or adding passages, could significantly improve wildlife movement. Such changes would allow pronghorns to follow their natural paths without obstruction. The findings highlight the need for infrastructure designs that consider animal behavior. By making small adjustments, solar farms and other fenced areas can coexist with wildlife. The researchers hope their work will inform future projects to reduce conflicts between energy development and conservation.