Raptor Electrocutions on Power Lines

Abstract

Raptors commonly perch on power poles across Montana.   Occasionally this results in the electrocution of a raptor.   Electric Utilities, Electric Cooperatives, agencies and NGO’s are working together to share information and reduce risks to raptors and other birds on electric systems across Montana.  This presentation will discuss why raptors use power poles, what the risk factors are, what electric utilities can do to prevent electrocutions and what we as biologists can do when we encounter a dead bird under a power pole.