Study

Deterrence of kangaroos from agricultural areas using ultrasonic frequencies: efficacy of a commercial device

  • Published source details Bender H. (2003) Deterrence of kangaroos from agricultural areas using ultrasonic frequencies: efficacy of a commercial device. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 31, 1037-1046.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Use ultrasonic noises to deter crop damage by mammals to reduce human-wildlife conflict

Action Link
Terrestrial Mammal Conservation
  1. Use ultrasonic noises to deter crop damage by mammals to reduce human-wildlife conflict

    A replicated, controlled, paired sites study in 1995–1996 on a grassland site in Victoria, Australia (Bender 2003) found that ultrasonic devices (ROO-Guard) did not repel eastern gray kangaroos Macropus giganteus. The number of kangaroo faecal pellets counted with the devices running (0.36–0.38 pellets/m2/day) was not significantly different from the number counted in the presence of dummy devices (0.17–0.20 pellets/m2/day). ROO-Guards were reported by the manufacturer to emit high frequency noise that is inaudible to humans but which deters kangaroos by masking their ability to hear predators. ROO-Guard Mk II devices were operated in December 1995–January 1996 in five open grassy areas of ≥100 m diameter. Each was paired with a similar area ≥850 m away, where an inactive device was simultaneously placed. Kangaroo use of each area was assessed by counting faecal pellets after 5–10 days.

    (Summarised by: Nick Littlewood)

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