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<p>Avian fatalities caused by power lines are a significant concern globally, but their impact remains poorly studied in Asia, including Nepal. This study investigates baseline data and factors contributing to avian mortality along power lines in the Pokhara Valley. An 11 KV distribution line spanning the valley was divided into 1.5&#xa0;km segments, with 22 segments randomly selected for sampling. A 12-meter buffer zone along the conductor line was surveyed for carcasses. The study recorded 61 bird fatalities from 15 species, with 51 individuals of 13 species attributed to electrocution and 10 individuals of 8 species resulting from collisions. Raptors accounted for 25% of the total fatalities, while critically endangered species comprised 7%, endangered species 10%, and near-threatened species 8%. Black kites (<i>Milvus migrans</i>) and house crows (<i>Corvus splendens</i>) were the most frequently electrocuted species, whereas collisions were more common among house swifts (<i>Apus nipalensis</i>) and common mynas (<i>Acridotheres tristis</i>). The collision rate was 0.3 birds per kilometer, and the electrocution rate was 0.13 birds per pole. Bird abundance, proximity to vegetation and water sources, and the presence or absence of proper insulation were significant factors influencing mortality rates. Retrofitting power lines, implementing adequate insulation, and installing bird deflectors and anti-perching devices are necessary measures to reduce fatalities. Regular monitoring of distribution lines is also essential to access the risk to birds on a given line.</p>

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Avian mortality along power lines in Pokhara valley, Nepal

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年8月18日

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  • Dipa Gurung,
  • Dinesh Bhusal,
  • Binita Timilsina,
  • Narayan Prasad Gautam

摘要

Avian fatalities caused by power lines are a significant concern globally, but their impact remains poorly studied in Asia, including Nepal. This study investigates baseline data and factors contributing to avian mortality along power lines in the Pokhara Valley. An 11 KV distribution line spanning the valley was divided into 1.5 km segments, with 22 segments randomly selected for sampling. A 12-meter buffer zone along the conductor line was surveyed for carcasses. The study recorded 61 bird fatalities from 15 species, with 51 individuals of 13 species attributed to electrocution and 10 individuals of 8 species resulting from collisions. Raptors accounted for 25% of the total fatalities, while critically endangered species comprised 7%, endangered species 10%, and near-threatened species 8%. Black kites (Milvus migrans) and house crows (Corvus splendens) were the most frequently electrocuted species, whereas collisions were more common among house swifts (Apus nipalensis) and common mynas (Acridotheres tristis). The collision rate was 0.3 birds per kilometer, and the electrocution rate was 0.13 birds per pole. Bird abundance, proximity to vegetation and water sources, and the presence or absence of proper insulation were significant factors influencing mortality rates. Retrofitting power lines, implementing adequate insulation, and installing bird deflectors and anti-perching devices are necessary measures to reduce fatalities. Regular monitoring of distribution lines is also essential to access the risk to birds on a given line.