ELECTROCUTION

The electrocution in power lines is one of the principal causes of mortality of many species of threatened birds. In Catalonia it has been assumed that approximately 3000 birds die annually for this cause. In case of Bonelli's Eagle, the electrocution is responsible for 65 % of the deaths of adult individuals detected in Catalonia and therefore it is one of the principal causes of the rapid decrease of its populations.

In addition to having a negative impact for the populations of birds, the electrocution can bear also other negative aspects, since it is the cause of numerous power outrages and in certain cases, it has been proved that the same incandescent bird can originate forest fires on having fallen down on the vegetation.

How a bird may be electrocuted?

The electrocution affects principally to birds of big or average size, such as raptors or crows that are accustomed to use the electrical pylons as hunting lookouts or as places to rest, to eat or to sleep. In certain supports, because of their design, the bird may touch very easily two conductive wires or do mass between the tower and one of the wires, so that it falls down victim of an electrical discharge.


Risk associated with the different types of electricity pylons


SOLUTIONS
Corrected pylon (Photo: Joan Real)

Canadian pylon (Photo: Albert Tintó)  Three crossarm braces pylon (Photo: Albert Tintó)

- A planning respectful with the natural environment, avoiding the installation of new power lines of distribution in the nesting and hunting areas of the eagles and other zones of ecological value.

 - The use of pylons with sure designs in distribution lines of new installation.

 - The location of the dangerous pylons in the lines at present existing and the later correction with effective anti-electrocution measures.

-  The burial of stretches that cross areas with a high risk of electrocution for the birds.

- The application of a legislation that promotes and regulates the implementation of the previous measures.

 - The awakening on the problem, so much at public's level in general as of professions of the electrical sector and members of the administrations who manage the territory.

- The narrow collaboration among electricity companies, public administrations and specializing technical personnel to anticipate the problem, optimize the realized corrections and foment the research of the most effective future anti-electrocution systems.

For further information:

TINTÓ, A., REAL, J. & MANYOSA, S. 2010 Predicting and correcting electrocution of birds in mediterranean areas. Journal of Wildlife Management, 74(8): 1852-1862. doi: 10.2193/2009-521


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