Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.31298/sl.150.5-6.1
Geospatial Analysis of Wildlife–Vehicle Collisions in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina: Identification of High-risk Zones
Alem Čolaković
; University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Traffic and Communications, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
*
Velid Halilović
; University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Forestry, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Nazif Salihović
; University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Traffic and Communications, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Muamer Dervišević
; Veterinary Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina / University of Sarajevo, Veterinary Faculty, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ajdin Džananović
; University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Traffic and Communications, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Wildlife–vehicle collisions (WVCs) represent a growing safety, ecological, and economic challenge, with direct consequences for human lives, material damage, and biodiversity conservation. In the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, systematic analyses that link traffic accidents caused by collisions with wildlife are lacking. This research identifies high-risk locations of WVCs and applies geospatial analysis to the main roads of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The analysis is based on official police reports documenting 14,169 traffic accidents between 2021 and 2023, of which 104 cases (0.73%) were classified as animal-related. Although species were not specified in the reports, these accidents predominantly occurred in areas where wildlife crossings are expected, and thus are treated as potential wildlife–vehicle collisions. The results indicate a concentration of WVCs in nine municipalities, with eight critical road segments identified on main roads. Additional analyses explored the relationship between collisions, road infrastructure (bridges, tunnels), and ecological features of habitats (Emerald Network, Natura 2000, Red List of FBiH, IUCN). Based on the findings, it can be concluded that spatially targeted prevention is essential, with priority given to infrastructural measures (wildlife overpasses, fencing, signage) and strategic measures (improved databases, continuous monitoring, and integration into spatial planning). The obtained results provide a foundation for policies that simultaneously enhance traffic safety and contribute to the protection of wildlife populations.
Keywords
Emerald network; geospatial analysis; Natura 2000; prevention measures; risk zones; road infrastructure; traffic accidents; wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs)
Hrčak ID:
347422
URI
Publication date:
26.5.2026.
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