Power line covers play a crucial role in protecting wildlife, especially birds. Let’s explore why they are essential:
Bird Mortality and Power Lines:
Millions of birds are killed each year due to collisions with power lines. These structures pose a significant threat to avian populations. Raptors, in particular, are at risk of electrocution because they often perch on utility poles and have large wingspans that can connect energized conductors, creating a circuit.
Types of Bird Deterrents:
To mitigate bird deaths, scientists have studied different bird deterrents attached to power lines.
The most commonly used types are:
PVC Spirals: These spirals made from PVC piping in bright colors (like orange or yellow) are somewhat effective in reducing bird mortality. Reflective Flappers: A newer model with three orange and red polypropylene blades equipped with reflective stickers. These flappers rotate and sway in the wind, making power lines more visible to birds.
Researchers found that the section of power lines with flapper diverters had an average death rate 70 percent lower compared to sections without any diverters.
Insulation and Safety:
The insulation of power lines with plastic or rubber covers significantly reduces the risk of electrocution for birds.
The outer covering acts as a barrier between live wires and the surrounding environment, minimizing accidental contact.
Global Impact:
Power lines are ubiquitous infrastructure, even in rural areas. Over 65 million kilometers of medium-high voltage power lines exist worldwide, and this number continues to grow.
More than 1 billion birds are estimated to be killed by power lines annually, including around 175 million birds in the United States alone.
Conservation Efforts:
Conservationists and utility companies have used flight diverters for years to reduce bird mortality and prevent wildlife-caused power outages.
Proper routing, siting, and design of power lines, along with the addition of bird flight diverters, benefit both birds and the ecosystem.
In conclusion, power line covers and effective bird deterrents are essential for safeguarding wildlife, especially birds. By implementing these measures, we can reduce avian mortality and promote coexistence between human infrastructure and the natural world. At Shine Industries, we offer durable options to shield your cables from operational and environmental stresses as well as protect it against the wildlife power outages.🌿🐦
