The fieldwork for studying bird mortality along key sections of overhead power lines in Northeast Bulgaria is in full swing. Within 8 months in 2023, field researchers from the Bulgarian Society for the Protection of Birds (BSPB) are conducting surveys to search for dead birds due to electrocution or collision with conductors. Based on the collected data, priority segments for mitigation will be determined.
The study areas have been selected following a preliminary analysis based on available data on vulnerable species locations, priority habitats, Natura 2000 protected areas, previous information on bird mortality, etc.
Currently, segments of the power transmission network in Northeast Bulgaria with a length of 1300 km are being surveyed. So far, over 100 victims from 24 species have been found. Among them are storks, diurnal and nocturnal birds of prey, pigeons, corvids, and others. It is expected that in the next few months, which coincide with the post-breeding dispersal period of young individuals and the intense migration in the eastern regions of the country, the mortality rate will increase.
These activities are carried out within the project "Safe Sky for Birds in North-Еastern Bulgaria," implemented jointly by Elektrodistribution North AD (EDN) (the electricity distribution company in Northeast Bulgaria) and BSPB. Over the next few years, the plan includes securing over 10,000 hazardous electricity poles, marking overhead lines with over 2,000 reflective diverters, and providing safe nesting sites for target species.
Safe Sky For Birds