Bird mortality by electrocution on power poles is a global problem that has become more prevalent in recent years as energy demand increases, resulting in infrastructure growth often in previously undeveloped areas. Electrocution associated with power lines occurs when a bird comes into contact with two wires, one of which is live, or when it perches on a conductive pylon (for example, a metal structure) and comes into simultaneous contact with a live wire. Large species such as vultures and eagles are particularly vulnerable. Electrocution risk can be very significant at old, badly designed and insulated poles and poorly sited power lines. Effective planning, design and mitigating measures can dramatically reduce the impact of energy infrastructure on avian populations (BirdLife International 2017).
Please find below a compilation of guidelines and recommendations to mitigate the threat of electrocution to migratory birds of prey.
Guidelines for Mitigating the Conflict between Migratory Birds and Electricity Power Grids
(CMS, 2011)
Resolution on the Electrocution of Migratory Birds
(CMS, 2002)
Review of the Conflict between Migratory Birds and Electricity Power Grids in the African-Eurasian Region
(AEWA, 2011)
Position Statement on Birds and Power Lines - On the risks to birds from electricity transmission facilities and how to minimise any such adverse effects
(BirdLife International, 2007)
Guidance on Appropriate Means of Impact Assessment of Electricity Power Grids on Migratory Soaring Birds in the Rift Valley/Red Sea Flyway
(BirdLife International, 2015)
Guidance on Power Lines: Birds and Power Lines within the Rift Valley/Red Sea Flyway
(BirdLife International)
Recommendations to Protect Nature in Power Grid Planning
(BirdLife International/BESTGRID, 2015)
Impacts of Power Lines on Bird Populations in Europe
(BirdLife Germany/NABU, 2011)
Practical Guide on the Risks to Birds from Electricity Transmission Facilities and how to minimise any such Adverse Effects
(BirdLife Germany/NABU)
Documenting and Reducing Avian Electrocutions in Hungary: A Conservation Contribution from Citizen Scientists
(BirdLife Hungary, 2018)
Best-Practice Guidelines for Assessing and Monitoring the Impact of Wind Energy Facilities on Birds in Southern Africa
(BirdLife South Africa/Endangered Wildlife Trust, 2015)
Guidelines for Avian Protection on Power Lines
(Avian Power Lines Internation Committee, 2006)
Recommendation on minimising adverse effects of above-ground electricity transmission facilities (power lines) on birds
(Bern Convention, 2004)
Budapest Declaration on Bird Protection and Power Lines
(Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats/Council of Europe, 2011)
Plan for Eradicating Bird Electrocution and Collision with Power Lines in the Region of Murcia
(General Directorate for the Environment Murcia)
Bird Electrocution (International Association for Falconry)