Technical and environmental factors involved in birds electrocution on power lines

Abstract

Technical and environmental factors responsible of bird electrocution have been analyzed in low and medium tension power lines in a bird important area placed in the south of Alicante province (SE Spain). One hundred eighty six dead birds (119 birds of prey) have been located in 182 poles inspected. Most species are legally protected and some are in jeopardy. Some pole types with suspended insulators have caused the same number of victims than poles with rigid insulators. Poles with rigid insulators in two levels produce more accidents than poles with one level. A different pole use according to the habitat has been observed. Birds of prey avoid poles in cultures, in the vicinity of roads and in flatlands or in hill tops. Furthermore, more electrocutions occur near bath zones. Poles in high places and located near to human altered habitats, where feeding is easy, are preferred by remainder birds.