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Oxford Study: Hedgehogs Hear Ultrasound, Aiding Road Safety

3/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers at the University of Oxford found that European hedgehogs can hear ultrasound, a finding that could enable ultrasonic repellents to reduce road deaths.
The study, published in Biology Letters, tested the auditory responses of 20 rehabilitated hedgehogs.
The hedgehogs detected sounds from 4 to 85 kHz, with peak sensitivity around 40 kHz.
The next step involves collaborating with the car industry to design effective ultrasonic repellents.

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Story summary

Researchers at the University of Oxford found that European hedgehogs can hear ultrasound, a finding that could enable ultrasonic repellents to reduce road deaths.
The study, published in Biology Letters, tested the auditory responses of 20 rehabilitated hedgehogs.
The hedgehogs detected sounds from 4 to 85 kHz, with peak sensitivity around 40 kHz.
The next step involves collaborating with the car industry to design effective ultrasonic repellents.