LTG Group has started testing acoustic deterrents on its rolling stock to reduce collisions with wild animals along railway lines.
The initiative follows recurring incidents involving wild animals across Lithuania’s rail infrastructure. Such collisions have led to operational disruptions, rolling stock damage, infrastructure repair costs, and compensation-related expenses.
The SIREN7 system, developed by a Hungarian manufacturer and previously tested on PKP Intercity trains in Poland, emits sound signals intended to drive animals away from tracks. Currently, 13 LTG Link passenger trains are equipped with the system, with 16 mainline locomotives from LTG Cargo set to follow in autumn 2025.
A two-week pre-trial period involving both a locomotive and a passenger unit was carried out to determine any adverse effects on train crews. None were reported. According to LTG, crew feedback indicated animals were observed reacting earlier and vacating the track area.
International reference data from operators in countries including Poland, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, the UK, and Hungary suggests that combined audio-visual deterrent systems may lower wildlife-train collisions by 85–93%. LTG’s trial is set to run for one year, with full results expected in the second half of 2026.
Alongside acoustic deterrents, LTG plans to introduce visual reflectors along selected sections of track in 2026. The company aims to assess the combined effectiveness of both methods before considering wider implementation.
