A VIRTUAL fencing trial on Browns Road and Jetty Road in Boneo is potentially reducing the number of animal deaths in a section of road by around 50 per cent, according to Mornington Peninsula Shire Council.
The virtual fence, which consists of solar-powered units attached to roadside posts, operates at night and is triggered by the headlights of approaching vehicles. Once triggered, the units emit a sound and light stimulus that deters nearby kangaroos and wallabies from crossing the road.
Infrastructure manager Tom Haines-Sutherland said the virtual fencing was not expected to reduce not prevent all collisions.
“We are still seeing a few wildlife casualties, mainly eastern grey kangaroos. Manufacturer trials in Tasmania suggest up to a 50 per cent reduction in wildlife and vehicle collisions in virtual fencing locations,” he said. “We are monitoring and maintaining the units routinely to pick up any faults and repair or replace where necessary.”
Council working on the trial with the Mornington Peninsula Wildlife Action Group and Greens Bush Association.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 1 November 2022
