On a 70-100km/h stretch of road in Romsey, plenty of ducks can be found roadside and attempting to cross.
The flock of ducks moved into a small water basin at Romsey Community Aged Care and from there, have been making their way onto Lancefield Road.
Multiple residents have said they have witnessed ducks being hit by cars, and reported having to slam on the brakes to avoid killing the wildlife.
Romsey resident Michelle Downes said she has seen multiple ducks dead beside the major arterial road into town.
“I was very concerned when I first saw the [wetlands] being built there because they were so close to [Lancefield Road], and while I understand council saying it had to be at the lowest point at the area … in theory that was a good idea but obviously what they haven’t considered is the impact it’s going to have not just on the wildlife, but on the road traffic directly in front of it,” she said.
“The wetlands have attracted a lot of ducks, and lots of families of ducks are now wandering out onto the main road with 100km/h of traffic.
“The other day I saw at least 20 ducks on Lancefield Road, and they’re either going to be killed or the traffic will have to suddenly stop or swerve or slam their brakes on to try and avoid them.”
Ms Downes has contacted Macedon Ranges council and Romsey Community Aged Care and its developers about the issue.
For Purpose Aged Care, which looks after the Romsey site, said it was aware of the situation.
“We are currently investigating the matter and working with the local council to better understand the situation and identify appropriate, compliant options to reduce any potential risk to wildlife and road users,” a spokesperson said.
“This includes reviewing site conditions and considering practical measures that may help discourage ducks from moving toward the roadway.”
The spokesperson said no decisions have been finalised.
Council assets and operations acting director Daniel Grigson said the road is managed by Department of Transport and Planning and council would provide supporting information about the issue to the department.
“We appreciate road safety concerns surrounding a reported increase of ducks at this location. Given it is not uncommon to see ducks or other wildlife on roads across the shire, and that this location has a signed speed limit of 70km/h, it is the driver’s responsibility to remain alert and drive to the conditions,” he said.
