Birds sitting on power lines is a common sight. While it may seem harmless, it can actually cause major problems for both the birds and the power companies. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore why birds sit on power lines, the dangers it poses, and most importantly, effective solutions to stop this behavior.
Why Do Birds Sit on Power Lines?
There are a few key reasons birds, especially larger ones like crows and ravens, like to perch on power lines:
- Vantage point – Being elevated gives them a clear view to spot food or predators nearby. Power poles provide an ideal artificial perch.
- Resting spot – Flat, straight power lines are convenient places for birds to comfortably rest their feet.
- Warmth – Current running through the wires generates heat, allowing birds to stay warm in colder temperatures.
- Socializing – Power lines are gathering places for some species to mingle with their flocks and peers.
While these benefits seem useful for birds, their presence on power lines can be problematic.
Dangers of Birds on Power Lines
Birds resting on electrical equipment can cause major hazards, including:
- Power outages – Their droppings can conduct electricity between lines, shorting them out.
- Fires – Droppings can also cause sparks and electrical fires when they build up.
- Electrocution – If birds touch two lines simultaneously or a line and a pole, they can be electrocuted.
- Equipment damage – Their pecking or nesting behaviors can damage insulation or cause mechanical issues.
- Injury to birds – Landing on unstable wires and equipment can lead to falls, burns, or entanglement.
Power disruptions and equipment damage from bird interference costs power companies and ratepayers billions of dollars annually. Finding solutions is critical.
Effective Ways to Stop Birds Sitting on Power Lines
There are several methods power companies, government agencies, and property owners can implement to deter birds from landing on electrical wires and infrastructure:
1) Install Bird Diverters
Bird diverters are plastic or metal devices installed on power lines or poles to discourage perching. Features include:
- Spikes – Prevents grip by irritating birds’ feet.
- Wires – Disrupts landing spots with unstable footing.
- Flash tape – Reflective surface spins and flashes in wind.
- Spheres or coils – Rolls to unsettle balance when landing.
Proper spacing between diverter types is key for maximum coverage across lines.
2) Modify Wires and Poles
Making power structures less accommodating can drive away birds:
- Insulation covers – Smooth plastic coating eliminates grip and warmth.
- Rounded pole tops – Removes flat perch space birds seek.
- Close spacing of wires – Prevents space for birds to land between lines.
- Underground wiring – Buried lines completely eliminate access.
Though more expensive, modifying infrastructure is a permanent solution.
3) Employ Scare Devices
Scarecrows, decoys of predators, and noisemakers can frighten birds from power structures:
- Owl decoys – Birds will avoid areas watched by perceived predators.
- Reflective tape – Shiny spinning tape appears threatening.
- Sonic devices – Ultrasonic noise uncomfortable to birds.
- Screamer shells – Shells emit loud whistles when fired into flocks.
The downside is birds can become habituated over time, reducing effectiveness. Devices should be moved periodically.
4) Apply Chemical Repellents
Non-toxic chemicals irritate birds’ senses, encouraging them to avoid and find alternative spots:
- Capsaicin gel – Extracted from chili peppers causes skin irritation.
- Methyl anthranilate – Grape flavoring activated by ultraviolet light.
- Avitrol – Causes distress displays in some birds, frightening the rest.
Frequent reapplication is required, and some products may need EPA approval.
5) Remove Nearby Nesting Sites
Eliminating nesting sites close to power infrastructure will reduce activity:
- Cut down vegetation and trees near power poles and lines.
- Install obstacles like netting on platforms and ledges.
- Block access holes to potential cavities for nesting.
This may not completely solve the issue if suitable alternative sites are still nearby.
6) Train Utility Workers
Educating electrical workers and technicians on effective bird deterrents and being alert to problem areas can facilitate solutions:
- Report areas with frequent bird activity.
- Properly space and maintain deterrent devices.
- Identify damaged equipment needing repair.
- Remove nests found on equipment.
Vigilance from ground crews is key for ongoing management.
7) Work with Wildlife Agencies
Cooperating with wildlife and conservation officials provides access to expertise:
- Learn which species are problematic locally.
- Obtain permits for any necessary wildlife handling.
- Ensure solutions don’t harm native species.
- Use any available grants for deterrents and modifications.
Their knowledge can help target the most effective solutions.
FAQ
Can birds sitting on power lines cause damage?
Yes, birds perching on power lines can cause damage to both the birds themselves and the power equipment. They can be electrocuted if they touch two components of the wiring or poles, and collisions with power lines can be harmful or fatal for them. Some birds may also damage the power lines by picking at wiring or nesting directly on or inside the power line poles.
What methods can be used to keep birds off power lines?
There are several methods that can be used to keep birds off power lines. Visual deterrents such as reflective tape or sculptures of owls, eagles, or hawks with glowing eyes can be effective. Sound deterrents, such as motion-activated sirens or predator sounds, can be paired with visual deterrents for added effectiveness. Strobe lights can also be installed near power lines. Removing nests and attractants, such as food or nesting materials, can help discourage birds from perching. If other methods are not effective, calling an animal control expert may be necessary.
What is the Bird Blocker solution to keep birds away from power lines?
The Bird Blocker is an engineered solution that prevents birds from perching on power line conductors while minimizing conductor loadings. It is designed to balance on the conductor and right itself if blown or pushed, providing an unstable footing for birds. The Bird Blocker can be installed with rubber stoppers at one end, allowing multiple blockers to be hooked over the conductor.
How can birds perching on power lines be deterred without causing harm?
Humane deterrents such as the WhirlyBird Repeller and visual deterrents like reflective tape or sculptures can effectively deter birds from power lines without causing harm. Sound deterrents, strobe lights, removing nests and attractants, or seeking assistance from animal control experts are also practical solutions to discourage birds from perching and reduce the potential for damage to power equipment.