Definition & Meaning of "roadkill"

What is a "roadkill"?

Roadkill refers to animals that have been killed after being hit by a vehicle on the road. It is most commonly seen with wildlife like deer, raccoons, or smaller animals such as birds and squirrels. Roadkill often happens when animals unexpectedly cross the road, and drivers are unable to stop in time. While it can be a sad and unavoidable event, roadkill is also a reminder of the risks wildlife face in areas with heavy traffic. In some cases, local authorities or wildlife organizations may remove the dead animals from the road for safety and hygiene reasons.