As most Australian states prepare to end daylight saving time on Sunday, experts warn the clock change will disrupt wildlife and increase the risk of road collisions with animals. The shift brings the evening commute closer to dusk, when kangaroos and wallabies are most active, potentially leading to more accidents.
University of Melbourne professor Therésa Jones explains that all species, from plankton to birds, have circadian rhythms set by the sun. 'With daylight saving, we start shifting our cars and daily routine more into the zone of animals' sunset and sunrise period,' she says. Artificial light at night, which increases when clocks go back, also affects insects' mating behaviour and birds' choruses.
Deakin University professor Euan Ritchie warns that increased traffic during peak animal activity times can lead to more wildlife-vehicle collisions. A 2016 study suggested that reintroducing daylight saving in Queensland could save koalas by reducing the number hit by cars during evening commutes.
Pets are also affected by the time change. Dogs, which are creatures of habit, may become unsettled by sudden shifts in feeding and walking routines. However, experts note that pets respond primarily to their owners' behaviour rather than the clocks themselves.
