Vidauban's Eco-Bridge: A Lifeline for Wildlife Crossing the A8 Motorway in France

Edited by: Anulyazolotko Anulyazolotko

The Eco-Bridge of Vidauban, a 15-meter-wide structure, connects the Massif des Maures to the Argens plain, enabling local fauna to safely cross the A8 motorway.

Built in 2013, this eco-bridge was designed to preserve biodiversity by providing a secure passage for animals like deer, wild boars, reptiles, and insects. Protection barriers were installed to reduce motorway noise and headlight glare, creating a suitable environment for animal movement, especially at night.

The eco-bridge's flora was chosen to match the surrounding vegetation, facilitating animal movement and promoting genetic mixing. In 2021, approximately 1,300 animal crossings were recorded on the eco-bridge, demonstrating its effectiveness. Species such as red deer, ocellated lizards, and golden eagles regularly use this structure to cross the motorway.

This haven of peace is dedicated exclusively to wildlife. Walkers are asked not to use it and to observe it from a distance, respecting its primary goal: to protect species.

Sources

  • France Bleu

  • Dix ans après, on fait le bilan des écoponts bâtis sur l'A8 pour protéger la biodiversité dans le Var

  • Cerf, lézard, aigle... Ces animaux qui s'installent sur les "écoponts" bâtis sur l'A8 dans le Var

  • Où sont situés les "écoponts" bâtis sur l'A8 pour préserver la biodiversité dans le Var?

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