What to do if you hit an endangered animal with a vehicle in Kansas?

KANSAS (KSNT) - Many areas of Kansas are home to various endangered species, there's always a possibility of accidentally hitting one while driving.

27 News spoke to Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks (KDWP) Ecological Services Assistant Director Jordan Hofmeier on what to do if you encounter or hit an endangered animal.

The KDWP keeps an updated list of which native Kansas species are in danger of extinction. As of 2023, the list includes 22 endangered species and 30 threatened species, the majority of which are aquatic in nature. A comprehensive list of endangered species can be found here.

The KDWP defines endangered species as any species of wildlife whose continued existence as a viable component of the state’s wild fauna is determined to be in jeopardy. Threatened species are defined as any species of wildlife that appears likely, within the foreseeable future, to become an endangered species.

According to Hofmeier, the likelihood of encountering endangered species is highly unlikely because of their rarity or level of imperilment. However, finding one is always possible.

In Kansas, endangered animals are protected by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act. If someone hits an endangered animal with a vehicle, Hofmeier warns not to collect any part of the animal. He said special permits are required for the possession of protected species. He also said the KDWP may collect the animal for research purposes.

If you hit an endangered species, Hofmeir says you should report it to the KDWP by clicking here. You can also call the Pratt Operations Office at 620-672-5911.

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