Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park tests new road signs to protect lynx

French authorities are launching an experimental road signage program in the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park to protect the Eurasian lynx. Starting in September and running through October, specific regulatory signs will be deployed on national roads (N5, N57) and departmental roads across the Ain, Doubs, and Jura departments.

The initiative, part of a 2022 national action plan, uses modified A15b “wildlife” signs that may include lynx silhouettes, zone extent indicators, or recommended speed limits. The goal is to reduce vehicle collisions, which are currently the leading cause of mortality for the species, with approximately 20 collisions detected annually in France.

Evaluated by CEREMA over a three-year period, the experiment will study driver perception and the effectiveness of the signs in limiting accidents. The Jura massif is a critical habitat, hosting nearly 80% of the French lynx population. The project is supported by the Ministry of Ecological Transition and the WWF.