Animal collision season is here

West Australians are being urged to stay particularly aware of animals on the road, with insurance figures showing we’re in the worst time of year for collisions with wildlife.

According to AAMI data accounting for more than 21,000 claims, there is a 15 per cent rise in claims due to vehicle accidents involving animals between May and August.

Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service’s Kristie Newton said this year could be even more troublesome.

“The summer bushfires have wiped out an estimated 1 billion native animals, and the devastating loss of so much bushland has left many displaced and vulnerable,” she said.

“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.”

Somewhat surprisingly, the AAMI figures show the most likely spot in WA to hit an animal isn’t in a regional area, but Baldivis in Perth’s south.

Nannup, Busselton, Karratha and Margaret River round out the top five. The most common day for an animal collision is Friday, followed by the weekend.

To avoid issues, the RAC says one solitary animal or road kill can be a sign of other wildlife in the area, so it recommends slowing down and paying extra attention.

It says to be extra careful when driving at dawn or dusk and to pay attention to yellow animal warnings signs in the area.

Avoid driving at night if possible, particularly in rural areas, but if it’s unavoidable, make sure to use your high-beams and pay attention to reflecting eyes in the distance.

If an animal comes into your path, brake but don’t swerve; many serious accidents are caused by motorists attempting to avoid an animal only to run off the road or into other traffic.

If you do hit an animal, check its welfare, but only if it is safe to do so.

If it’s injured, call the Wildcare Helpline on 9474 9055.

“Keep any distressed animals warm, ideally wrapped in a blanket, jumper or cardboard box, and keep quiet until you can call for help,” Ms Newton said.

Kangaroos most likely

Unsurprisingly, the AAMI data shows most animal collisions in Australia — 84 per cent — involve kangaroos.

If you hit one with your car or find an injured roo, the Parks and Wildlife Service urges caution when investigating.

It says to keep aware of the surrounding traffic conditions and to be wary of a kangaroo’s strong kick and sharp claws, especially if it’s in distress.

Do not approach or attempt to catch it — secure the area and try to prevent other people or pets approaching.

Also, be sure to check the surrounding area for any young nearby. If you find a baby animal, wrap it up to keep it warm.

“If it has passed away, check its pouch as young animals will not survive long in these conditions,” Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service’s Kristie Newton said.

WA ANIMAL COLLISION HOTSPOTS

1. Baldivis
2. Nannup
3. Busselton
4. Karratha
5. Margaret River