The increasing incidence of vehicle-animal collisions poses significant risks to both human and wildlife safety. To address this challenge, the implementation of IoT (Internet of Things) sensor networks for wild-animal detection near roads offers a promising solution. This paper explores the design and deployment of an IoT-based system aimed at detecting the presence of wild animals near roadways, thereby enhancing road safety and wildlife conservation. The proposed system utilizes a network of infrared (IR) sensors, motion detectors, and cameras strategically placed along road sections prone to wildlife crossings. These sensors continuously monitor the area, and upon detecting an animal, they transmit real-time data to a central processing unit via wireless communication protocols. The system then processes this data to generate immediate alerts for drivers through connected road signs or mobile applications, warning them of potential hazards ahead. Additionally, the collected data is stored and analyzed to understand animal movement patterns, which aids in making informed decisions about further preventive measures and the placement of wildlife crossings. The incorporation of machine learning algorithms improves the system's precision in distinguishing between different types of animals and minimizing false alarms. This IoT sensor network not only mitigates the risk of accidents but also contributes to the conservation of wildlife by preventing unnecessary fatalities. This project explores the use of Genetic Algorithms (GA) to optimize a detection system that can identify wild animals near roadsides. The paper summarizes with a discussion on the effectiveness of the system, potential challenges in implementation, and outlines future pathways for research and innovation in this domain. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.