Study Suggests Ultrasound Repellers May Help Keep Hedgehogs Off Roads

In Brief

Researchers found hedgehogs hear high-frequency ultrasound, which may enable development of road deterrent devices.

Key Facts

• A study found hedgehogs can hear high-frequency ultrasound.
• Scientists hope ultrasound repellers could deter hedgehogs from dangerous roads.
• Vehicles are estimated to kill up to one in three hedgehogs, according to the source.

What Happened

A study reported that hedgehogs can detect high-frequency ultrasound, leading scientists to consider ultrasound repellers as a possible method to keep hedgehogs away from roads.

Why It Matters

Hedgehog populations have declined across Europe, with vehicle collisions cited as a significant factor. New deterrent technologies could potentially reduce road deaths among hedgehogs. Based on a single source report

What's Next

Further research and development of ultrasound repeller devices may be conducted to test their effectiveness in preventing hedgehog road deaths.