How does the LAARMA system work to protect Australian cassowaries?

The LAARMA system uses a variety of roadside sensors to detect when cassowaries, a large and endangered bird species in Australia, enter the travel lane. When detected, the system triggers flashing warning signs to alert drivers, reducing the risk of collisions.

What makes the LAARMA technology unique?

The LAARMA system's key innovation is its AI component, which allows the technology to continuously learn and improve its performance. Every time the system spots a cassowary, it gains new insights that help it better identify and track the animals in the future.

How can the LAARMA system benefit other regions beyond Australia?

The LAARMA system's code is available for free to highway managers worldwide, making it possible for the technology to be adopted and adapted to protect a variety of wildlife species in different parts of the globe. This could help prevent costly and dangerous collisions between vehicles and animals like whitetail deer in North America or giant anteaters in Brazil.

Home / Environment / Roadside AI Sensors Detect Animals, Warn Drivers to Avoid Deadly Collisions

Roadside AI Sensors Detect Animals, Warn Drivers to Avoid Deadly Collisions

4 Nov

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Summary

Roadside sensors detect animals entering travel lanes, triggering warning signs
System identifies 97% of cassowaries, reducing collision risk
AI component allows the technology to continuously improve itself

Roadside AI Sensors Detect Animals, Warn Drivers to Avoid Deadly Collisions

In November 2025, a team of researchers from Australia unveiled a groundbreaking roadside technology that leverages artificial intelligence to protect wildlife and drivers from deadly collisions. The "Large Animal Activated Roadside Monitoring and Alert" (LAARMA) system, developed over the past 12 months, is capable of detecting animals entering the travel lane and triggering flashing warning signs to alert motorists.

During a field test in Queensland, the LAARMA system was able to identify 97% of the endangered cassowaries, a large, flightless bird that can weigh up to 175 pounds. By warning drivers of the animals' presence, the technology has significantly reduced the risk of collisions, which can be as devastating as "hitting a refrigerator," according to project co-lead Ioni Lewis.