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According to the latest data from Suncorp Group insurance brand AAMI, animal collisions are once again expected to spike as winter sets in, with a 15 per cent jump between May and August. This high-risk time follows a horror bushfire season which has taken an enormous toll on animal life and habitats, with fears an increase in animal collisions will further impact vulnerable wildlife.

Kristie Newton from WIRES, NSW Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service, said: “The summer bushfires have wiped out an estimated one billion native animals, and the devastating loss of so much bushland has left many displaced and vulnerable.

“As we head into winter, we may see increased activity particularly from nocturnal wildlife as they cross roads in search of food and water, which we saw after the drought, increasing the likelihood of them being hit,” Newton said.

Analysis of more than 21,000 AAMI animal collision claims between 1 February 2019 and 31 January 2020 revealed Canberra as the country’s most dangerous hotspot.

New South Wales has been ranked the worst state for animal collisions, followed closely by Victoria. Almost one third of animal related accidents across the country took place on NSW roads. 

AAMI revealed the top animal collision hotspots in each state and territory as:

Location

#1 State Hotspots

National

Canberra

New South Wales

Dubbo  (new)

Victoria

Heathcote  (new)

Queensland

Roma  (new)

Western Australia

Baldivis

South Australia

Port Augusta

Tasmania

Kingston (new)

Australian Capital Territory

Canberra

While Canberra’s reign as Australia’s top animal collision hotspot continues for a fourth consecutive year, new entrants to this year’s list include Dubbo in New South Wales, Heathcote in Victoria, Roma in Queensland and Kingston in Tasmania.

“As native animals come closer to the road to feed, drivers should be extra vigilant especially near water sources like creeks or gullies where thick fog can occur and reduce drivers’ visibility." Newton said.

 

 

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