Canberra and Belconnen have been identified as the ACT’s worst hotspots for animal collisions, as new data reveals a sharp national increase in crashes involving wildlife.

NRMA Insurance figures show more than 15,000 animal collision claims were lodged in 2025 — a 21 per cent rise on the previous year — with the risk set to climb further heading into the Easter and school holiday travel period.

Within the ACT, Canberra, Belconnen and Kambah recorded the highest number of incidents, while some of the Territory’s busiest arterial roads were also flagged as danger zones.

William Hovell Drive in Belconnen topped the list of the ACT’s worst roads for animal collisions, followed by the Monaro Highway in Hume and the Barton Highway in Hall.

Across Australia, kangaroos accounted for the vast majority of crashes, making up 84 per cent of all animal collisions. Other animals involved included wallabies, wombats, deer and foxes, along with less common encounters involving possums, echidnas, koalas and emus.

NRMA Insurance executive manager claims Nick Kirkovski said the risk increases significantly during the cooler months, particularly as daylight hours shorten.

“Animal encounters on Australian roads increase through autumn and winter as the days become shorter and wildlife activity peaks at dusk, dawn and night,” Mr Kirkovski said.

“Wildlife can appear on the road with little warning, which is why it’s so important for drivers to stay alert, particularly when travelling long distances in regional areas these school holidays.”

July recorded the highest number of claims nationally last year, with the danger period typically running from April through to September.

Drivers in regional and rural areas face the highest risk, particularly during peak holiday travel periods when more vehicles are on the road.

Mr Kirkovski said motorists should slow down and avoid swerving if they encounter animals, warning that sudden movements can lead to more serious crashes.

NRMA is urging drivers to take precautions including avoiding travel at dawn and dusk where possible, reducing speed in wildlife zones and taking regular breaks to stay alert behind the wheel.