Roads present an unnatural and confusing environment for wildlife and humans alike. Wildlife reflectors and auditory deterrents aim to modify the behaviour of wildlife on or adjacent to the road. Reflectors are designed to redirect the light from oncoming vehicles into the adjacent verge, while auditory deterrents are designed to cause pain, irritation or masking of other biologically relevant noises. Both techniques attempt to warn animals and discourage them from attempting to cross roads in front of approaching vehicles, with the ultimate goal of reducing the rate of wildlife‐vehicle collisions (WVC).
Most studies of the effectiveness of wildlife warning reflectors have been poorly designed and are inconclusive.
The colour and intensity of light produced by reflectors may not elicit a response in the target species.
Wildlife warning reflectors are unlikely to alter animal behaviour and prevent WVC.
Auditory deterrents, typically mounted to the front of vehicles, appear ineffective at modifying animal behaviour and are unlikely to significantly reduce the rate of WVC.
Wildlife reflectors and auditory deterrents may add to the complexity of the roadway environment without achieving the intended effect of preventing WVC. Given the unproven effectiveness of these techniques and the potential negative consequences of using the devices, the implementation of wildlife warning reflectors and auditory deterrents is not recommended.
Use of Reflectors and Auditory Deterrents to Prevent Wildlife–Vehicle Collisions
Handbook of Road Ecology ; 213-218
2015-04-01
6 pages
Aufsatz/Kapitel (Buch)
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
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