According to recent figures, 39 animals, including six badgers, five pheasants and five hedgehogs, are reported killed on UK roads every day.

More than 14,600 animals are run over and killed each year, with the A1 and the M6 responsible for the largest numbers.

However, the true number is thought to be far higher as most deaths are not reported.

The Badger Trust estimates that more than 50,000 badgers are run over and killed each year, while a study by Nottingham Trent University in 2020 estimated that as many as 335,000 hedgehogs are killed on UK roads every year.

Mr Packham’s account left many of his social media followers in tears, with several calling for greater protection for wildlife through schemes such as nature corridors allowing animals to cross over or under roads.

Annelisa, an amateur photographer wrote: “Your beautiful words and compassion for her brought a tear to my eye. I also found one of my clan on the road outside my home last year, 20 mph limit…There really is never any excuse for speeding.”

Ash Gerrard, a design student, said: “I’ve driven down to Cornwall and back for work yesterday/today, around 800 miles of driving. Honestly could not believe how many badgers I saw dead at the side of the road. It’s so sad.”