The moose of the Volgograd region are in for a bit of a shock this October, courtesy of specialists at the Federal Road Agency.
Using the same technology that surrounds livestock pastures worldwide, the Electropastukh (Electric Shepherd) electric fence system intends to keep wildlife off areas of highway where animals and motorists tend to converge.
The 5-kilometer length of highway chosen for the project's trial run has seen a total of eight accidents involving animals this year.
If the trial is successful, fences could be installed along the entire length of the A-114 Vologda-Novaya Ladoga federal highway, 42 percent of which crosses wildlife migration routes, according to the Federal Road Agency.
The fence runs on solar panels and will be energized to 12 volts — just enough to startle an animal, or a man, without harming them.
For the moose's convenience, openings will be provided at 100-meter intervals. Special laser sensors will communicate the animals' presence to road signs warning motorists to drive cautiously.
In another upcoming project, called Ekoviaduk (Eco-Viaduct), footbridges will be set up in the Sheksinsky district specially for use by wildlife, making migration a little bit more akin to a Muscovite commute.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
