Revealed: Qld’s top hotspots for animal collisions

Almost 15 animals are being hit on Queensland roads a day, as new data reveals the worst locations across the state for it. SEE THE LIST

Kangaroos were the most hit animal across Queensland. Pics Adam Head

Almost 15 animal collisions are happening on Queensland roads a day, as new data reveals August is the worst month for it, prompting renewed calls for drivers to be vigilant.

Data provided from national insurer AAMI shows the top hotspots across Queensland are Nebo, Brisbane, Goondiwindi, Townsville and Charters Towers.

The total number of Queensland animal collisions in 2023 were 5,155, with the car most likely to hit it was a Toyota LandCruiser.

“Nebo is the number one hotspot, but Brisbane was actually the second for Queensland, which is not like any of the other states,” AAMI motor claims manager Leah James said.

“It’s the only metro, major city that appeared compared to the other states.

Ms James said there was a lot of construction and development in Queensland especially with the Olympics coming up.

Almost 15 animal collisions are happening on Queensland roads a day, as new data reveals August is the worst month for it, prompting renewed calls for drivers to be vigilant.

“It’s probably more so because of the amount of infrastructure being developed through those sort of wider Brisbane areas,” she said.

“The region itself is seeing far more wildlife loss or habitat loss, and it’s just driving more animals out.”

The data showed the worst day for it is Friday and the worst time is between 4.30pm and 8pm. In Queensland the animal most commonly hit was a kangaroo.

Ms James said almost half of Aussies ignored wildlife warning signs and more than 60 per cent would swerve if they saw an animal on the road.

“We just want to make sure that people are reading warning signs you’re not going to be able to prevent an accident at times, but we want people to be more prepared,” she said.

“So that they’re not going to swerve and cause, an injury or risk to other drivers or the passengers within their vehicles.”

Kristie Newton from Wildlife Information, Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) said it was important for travellers to be prepared while travelling.

“Last year WIRES received more than 180,000 calls to our rescue line and assisted more than 130,000 native animals,” she said.

“A large portion of the wildlife in our care have come to us due to a vehicle collision, either being struck themselves or left orphaned after their mother was killed.

“It is important for drivers to be prepared when travelling, especially in regional and rural areas or in areas of large-scale development.

“By taking note of the following steps, you can protect both yourself and our native

animals.”