Oxford research unveils potential for ultrasound to protect hedgehogs on roads
New study discovers hedgehogs can hear high-frequency sounds, offering a path to reducing road fatalities
Researchers at the University of Oxford propose using ultrasound-repellers to reduce hedgehog road fatalities after discovering the creatures can hear high-frequency ultrasound.
Findings published on 11th March in Biology Letters reveal European hedgehogs can detect sounds up to 85 kHz, which opens avenues to design repellents deterring them from roads.
The European hedgehog, newly designated "near threatened" in 2024 by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, faces significant mortality from road collisions, contributing to the population decline.
Assistant Professor Sophie Lund Rasmussen said collaborations with the car industry could result in sound repellents preventing hedgehog deaths, potentially impacting conservation efforts positively.
The study, conducted by researchers from Oxford and Denmark, involved testing auditory responses of 20 rehabilitated hedgehogs using electrodes to measure brainstem electrical signals.
Results demonstrated that hedgehogs hear within the ultrasonic range, prompting further research into utilizing this ability for wildlife protection.
High-resolution micro-CT scans of a hedgehog's ear revealed features conducive to processing high-frequency sounds efficiently, akin to echolocating bats.
These discoveries suggest potential applications, including ultrasonic road deterrents and protection from garden machinery hazards.
Further inquiries will explore if hedgehogs utilize ultrasound for communication or prey detection.
Professor David Macdonald highlighted the excitement of connecting conservation-driven research to fundamental biological discoveries that might aid hedgehog conservation.
The study was a collaborative effort between several Danish and British institutions.