Making it easier for animals to move safely
How a hidden bridge helps native wildlife cross busy roads without danger.
There’s a special bridge in Meridan Plains that most people don’t even notice but it’s making a big difference for local wildlife. The Cresswell Road wildlife bridge crosses over busy Caloundra Road and helps animals like sugar gliders, frogs, reptiles, and echidnas move safely between habitats.
It’s the only land bridge of its kind on the Sunshine Coast, and it connects important nature areas like the Edward Corbould Environment Reserve and Caloundra Conservation Park to reserves on the other side of the road.
To make the bridge even better for wildlife, Council recently repaired and upgraded it. They added:
- 530 native plants to help restore the natural environment
- tiny cardboard shelters called habitat pods, which protect animals from predators while the plants grow
- logs and rocks to give animals places to hide and rest
- a new rope bridge for tree-living animals like possums and gliders.
The habitat pods are shaped like little teepees and will break down over time, helping the soil and plants grow stronger.
Council studies show that many animals use the bridge regularly, including squirrel gliders and rare species like the Yellow-footed Antechinus and Malomys. Without the bridge, roads like Caloundra Road would be dangerous barriers for wildlife trying to find food, shelter, or escape from floods and fires.
This project is part of Council’s work to protect nature and improve life for both people and animals.
Learn more about the project here.