Vehicle collisions with wildlife, especially in California, result in significant economic losses and threaten animal populations. Experts support wildlife crossings to mitigate these issues, while new solutions, like ‘Animalert’—a high-frequency alarm installed on cars—are being tested in Japan to protect endangered species like the Amami rabbit from road fatalities. Funded by Nissan and designed by TBWA
e Hakuhodo, this initiative aims to reduce animal deaths by warning them of approaching vehicles. The increasing deaths of Amami rabbits points to an urgent need for innovative approaches to wildlife protection in road design.
"...experts have long advocated for wildlife crossings that either span over high-speed freeways or burrow under them to help animals cross over safely."
"The Amami rabbit has been an endangered species because logging and urban development have reduced its forest habitat, but also because the animals are often hit and killed by cars."
"In December 2024 marked the beginning of an ambitious experiment on the Japanese island of Amami Oshima... A high-frequency alarm that is mounted at the front of the car to warn animals of its presence."
"The project...is the brainchild of Tokyo-based ad agency studio TBWA e Hakuhodo, aimed at reducing animal fatalities on roads."
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