Impact of linear infrastructure on South Africa’s primate fauna: the need for mitigation

Abstract South Africa’s extensive linear infrastructure network (which includes roads and power lines) is severely impacting the country’s historically recognised five primate species: greater or thick-tailed bushbaby ( Otolemur crassicaudatus ), southern lesser Galago moholi chacma baboon Papio ursinus vervet monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus ) samango Cercopithecus albogularis ). We present African mortality data from two different types on a country wide scale, over long-term sampling period. Using road line electrocution acquired sources, we compare discuss collection methodologies, resulting quality identify current limitations in understanding direct impacts of which have important implications for conservation planning. Between 1996-2021 total 483 mortalities were recorded lines, majority former. Vervet monkeys most impacted by both whereas bushbabies experienced least number mortalities. Both sets showed numerous incidents where more than one individual was killed (roadkill: 4%, up to four incident; electrocutions: 13%, six incident). GPS coordinates available 61% roadkill records 65% records. Age sex carcasses not only 11% Although Africa leads continent regarding collection, there are still areas protocol that can be improved projects implementing mitigation measures (e.g. canopy bridges) reduce lacking. argue presented here should form basis future implementation recommend prominently as threat when developing national international Red Lists.