Laser bird deterrent boosts tram depot safety

In Melbourne, pigeons and myna birds nesting in Yarra Trams’ depots posed safety concerns and significant challenges for the site, with feathers and droppings compromising worker health and damaging sensitive infrastructure. To combat this, a trial was initiated in 2023, with two AVIX Autonomic Bird Deterrent Lasers installed. Developed by Bird Control Group in the Netherlands and supplied by Australian partner Bird Beam, the fully automated laser bird deterrent enabled Yarra Trams to boost safety and reduce bird roosting by 90%.

The system dramatically improved site conditions, the operating company, Keolis Downer, noted, enhancing both safety and operational efficiency. The system uses focused beams of light — these create optical illusions perceived by birds as physical threats, described by experts as resembling a “sparkling broomstick”. The birds’ heightened visual sensitivity is exploited by the illusions, which naturally deter them without harm.

“The AVIX system operates autonomously, day and night, and is fully programmable to target specific areas,” said Keolis Downer, which was acquired by John Holland earlier this year. “Recognised by BirdLife Australia, it’s not only effective but also environmentally responsible. This rollout is part of our broader commitment to innovation and sustainability in public transport — and it’s helping to set a new global standard for urban infrastructure.”

Yarra Trams, following the success of the trial, has expanded the installation to other depots, with early results indicating that AVIX lasers could serve as a model for urban transit systems globally; interest has already emerged from cities such as Dubai. For its ethical and environmentally responsible design, the technology is endorsed by both the World Wildlife Fund and BirdLife Australia.