The Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) in the US has installed a new wildlife warning system on a highway stretch north of Moscow city to prevent accidents involving animals.

The solar-powered infrared detection system sends a flashing beacon off whenever an animal passes through the infrared beam, warning drivers about the approaching animal.

The beacon, which is on top of a yellow warning sign that shows the image of a jumping animal, runs for about 40 seconds each time the beam is interrupted by an animal.

The $200,000 system has been installed on a 2,200ft section of the US highway 95 on Steakhouse Hill on the west side of Moscow Mountain, an area 3,050 feet above the ground.

The wildlife-rich area has been the location of many accidents involving vehicles and animals, with two fatalities reported this year involving a moose and a deer.