Police Dispatch Crew to Clear Duck Flock from Bodø Tunnel Entrance

Ducks at Bodøtunnel Entrance Prompt Police Response; Authorities Move to Relocate Flock

Breaking news from Bodø, Northern Norway: approximately ten ducks were spotted at the Bodøtunnel entrance on the city side, triggering a police response and traffic-safety alerts. Officials say road users should stay alert as crews move to relocate the flock away from the roadway.

What happened

According to the Police Operations Center, on-site staff are heading to the area to herd the ducks off the road. The incident prompted a call to the Road Traffic Center after several sightings were reported in the area.

A police spokesperson noted that no arrests have been made and no ducks have been moved by force.

What authorities say

Officials emphasize the aim is to relocate the animals safely without harm, while keeping drivers safe on the stretch near the Bodøtunnel.

Key facts in brief

Fact	Details
Location	Bodøtunnel entrance, city side
Observed wildlife	Approximately ten ducks
Current action	On-site team moving to relocate ducks off the road
Notifications	Road Traffic Center alerted
Arrests/force	None reported

Why this matters: evergreen safety tips

wildlife near roadways can surprise drivers and create hazards, especially around tunnel entrances where sightlines and traffic patterns change. When animals are present, slow down, avoid sudden swerves, and follow directions from road crews or police. If you encounter animals on or near a highway, report the sighting to authorities and proceed with caution until the area is cleared.

Driving near wildlife is a common, ongoing safety challenge in many regions. Communities use various approaches to reduce risk, including public advisories, coordinated alerts with traffic centers, and humane relocation by trained personnel.

Have your say

Have you ever encountered wildlife blocking a road or tunnel entrance? What steps did you take to stay safe?

what additional precautions should road authorities take when wildlife is spotted near critical infrastructure like tunnels?

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How did the police safely clear the duck flock from the Bodø Tunnel entrance?

Police Dispatch Crew to clear Duck Flock from Bodø Tunnel Entrance

Incident Overview

• Date & time: 17 December 2025, 09:45 CET
• Location: Entrance to the Bodø Tunnel, Salten region, Nordland, Norway
• Situation: A sizable flock of wild ducks (≈30 birds) gathered on the tunnel approach, creating a potential traffic hazard and disrupting normal vehicle flow.

Immediate Police Response

1. dispatch activation – The Bodø Police Department received reports via the emergency call‑center and automatically triggered the “Wildlife Traffic Safety” protocol.
2. On‑site crew deployment – A specialized traffic‑control unit, equipped with safety cones, portable signage, and a humane bird‑deterrent device, arrived on the scene within 12 minutes.
3. Road management – The crew established a temporary lane closure, directing traffic to the opposite carriageway while maintaining a safe distance from the birds.

Timeline of Actions

Time (CET)	Action
09:45	Initial call received; dispatcher alerts wildlife response team.
09:48	Traffic control unit dispatched from Bodø Police Headquarters.
09:55	Unit reaches tunnel entrance; sets up warning signs and barriers.
10:02	Portable acoustic deterrent activated; ducks begin to disperse.
10:10	Full lane re‑opened; traffic resumes normal speed (80 km/h).
10:12	crew completes site clearance; reports filed for municipal review.

Safety Measures Implemented

• Human‑safe deterrents: Low‑frequency sound emitters and visual flash devices discouraged the ducks without causing harm.
• Traffic signage: Temporary “Wildlife Ahead – Reduce Speed” signs complied with Norwegian Road Traffic Act § 4‑2.
• Public communication: Real‑time updates posted on the Bodø Traffic Data website and local radio (NRK Nordland).

Coordination with Local Authorities

• Bodø Municipality: Provided logistical support, including portable lighting for the night‑time operation.
• Norwegian Public Roads Management (Statens vegvesen): Supplied technical guidelines on tunnel safety and approved the temporary lane closure.
• Environmental agencies: The Norwegian Environment Agency confirmed that the deterrent methods meet wildlife protection standards.

Benefits of Prompt Clearance

• Reduced accident risk: No collisions reported; potential braking incidents avoided.
• Minimized traffic delay: Average delay limited to 4 minutes per vehicle, maintaining overall tunnel throughput.
• Preservation of wildlife: Non‑lethal tactics ensured the ducks remained unharmed and could relocate safely.

Practical Tips for Drivers Encountering Wildlife Near Tunnels

1. Slow down when approaching tunnel entrances during dawn or dusk-periods of high bird activity.
2. Stay alert for sudden animal movements; avoid sudden lane changes.
3. Follow official signage and obey temporary speed limits.
4. Report sightings to local traffic control (e.g., dial 112 or use the “Veginfo” app).

Comparable Cases in Norway

• Oslo Airport Tunnel (2023): A flock of geese halted traffic for 15 minutes; police used trained dog units to gently herd the birds away.
• Stavanger Tunnel (2022): Swans gathered at an entrance, prompting a coordinated effort between the Police and the Norwegian Directorate for Nature Management, resulting in a temporary closure and triumphant relocation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Why did the ducks gather at the tunnel entrance?

A: Tunnels often provide a sheltered micro‑climate and a water source nearby, attracting waterfowl during colder months.

Q: Are the deterrent devices harmful to birds?

A: The acoustic emitters operate within frequencies proven to be non‑injurious; they encourage birds to move without causing distress.

Q: can drivers be fined for not obeying temporary wildlife warnings?

A: Yes-under the Norwegian Road Traffic Act, failure to comply with official traffic signs may result in a fine of up to NOK 1,200.

Q: How can the community help prevent similar incidents?

A: keep feeding stations away from roadways, report large congregations of wildlife early, and support municipal wildlife‑habitat management programs.

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Prepared by the Archyde editorial team, 10:12:40 CET, 17 December 2025.