Expanding Raptor Protection to Include Collision Prevention and Substation Management

Abstract

Electrocution mitigation is frequently the first step electric system operators take to manage raptor mortality on overhead electric systems. As electrocutions are addressed, operators often begin to distinguish carcasses found under pylons (electrocutions) from carcasses found mid-span between pylons (collisions), and begin to identify avian concerns in electrical substations, including raptor electrocutions. Each of these concerns, mid-span collisions and substation electrocutions, can involve raptors. This presentation will summarize the current state of the art in managing avian collisions, including raptor collisions, discussions of line markers, installation of line markers via uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS, drones), and illumination of power lines with ultraviolet light. The presentation will then summarize management techniques to prevent raptor electrocutions in substations, including discussions of perimeter fencing, internal fencing, equipment covers, perch deterrents, nest management and laser light. The presentation will conclude with examples of installation errors in Bird Protection Devices (BPDs) in electrical substations.