Tragic Electrocution: ‘Fiesty’ Hawk’s Death Sparks Safety Review in Phoenix Neighborhoods

The death of a red-tailed hawk, nicknamed “Fiesty,” due to suspected electrocution has ignited a crucial conversation about the safety of power lines in Phoenix neighborhoods. This incident underscores a concerning reality: power lines pose a significant threat to avian wildlife, resulting in millions of bird deaths annually in the United States. Between 12 and 64 million birds are killed each year at U.S. power lines, with collision and electrocution being the primary causes.

The Silent Threat: Avian Electrocution

Electrocution occurs when a bird simultaneously touches two energized parts of electrical equipment or an energized part and a grounded part. This completes an electrical circuit, resulting in a fatal shock. Raptors, with their large size and tendency to perch on high structures like power poles, are particularly vulnerable.

Why are raptors at greater risk?

Size: Larger birds have a greater wingspan, increasing the likelihood of contacting multiple electrical components.
Perching Behavior: Raptors often use power poles as vantage points for hunting or resting.
Hunting and Nesting: Hunting, displaying courtship, or defending territories can take away all the focus while approaching a power line.

A Community Mourns, Demands Action

The death of “Fiesty” has resonated deeply within the Phoenix community, prompting calls for increased safety measures. Residents are concerned about the potential danger to both wildlife and humans, especially in residential areas where power lines are close to homes and public spaces.

Utility Companies and Their Responsibility

Utility companies have a crucial role in preventing avian electrocutions. They are responsible for ensuring that their infrastructure is safe for both humans and wildlife. Failure to do so can lead to legal repercussions.

Legal Liabilities:

Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA): This act protects migratory birds, making it illegal to kill or harm them, even unintentionally.
Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act: Provides additional protection for these iconic species, with significant penalties for violations.

In 1999, Moon Lake Electric Association, Inc., was sentenced for federal wildlife violations involving the electrocution of protected eagles and hawks on the company’s power lines and poles in northwest Colorado. The company had to serve three years probation, pay $100,000 in penalties, and retrofit its utility lines to prevent electrocutions in the future.

Preventative Measures:

Insulation: Covering exposed electrical parts with insulators to prevent contact.
Increased Spacing: Increasing the distance between wires to prevent birds from simultaneously touching two conductors.
Avian-Safe Designs: Implementing construction designs that minimize the risk of electrocution.
Burying Lines: Burying power lines underground eliminates the risk of electrocution and collision.
Bird Deterrents: Using devices to discourage birds from perching on power lines.

Avian Protection Plans: A Proactive Approach

Many utility companies implement Avian Protection Plans (APPs) to mitigate the risks posed to birds. These plans outline specific measures to reduce avian electrocutions and collisions.

Key Components of an APP:

Risk Assessment: Identifying high-risk areas and infrastructure.
Mitigation Measures: Implementing strategies to reduce bird mortality.
Monitoring: Tracking the effectiveness of mitigation efforts.
Employee Training: Educating employees about avian protection.

What Can You Do?

While utility companies bear the primary responsibility for ensuring safety, community members can also play a vital role in protecting avian wildlife.

Report Hazards: If you notice any potential hazards, such as exposed wires or frequent bird electrocutions, report them to your local utility company.
Advocate for Change: Contact your local representatives and urge them to support policies that promote avian-safe infrastructure.
Support Conservation Organizations: Contribute to organizations dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats.
Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from bird nests and avoid disturbing their natural environment.
Do not feed the wildlife: Wild animals can become dependent on humans, may cross busy streets for food and can become a nuisance animal.

A Call for Collaboration

The tragic death of “Fiesty” serves as a stark reminder of the dangers birds face from power lines. By working together, utility companies, government agencies, and community members can create safer environments for avian wildlife. It’s imperative that utility companies prioritize the implementation of Avian Protection Plans, regularly inspect and maintain their infrastructure, and promptly address any identified hazards. This proactive approach will not only protect birds but also enhance the reliability of our power grid and foster a more sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Open Questions for Community Engagement:

What steps can be taken to ensure that utility companies are held accountable for protecting avian wildlife?
How can communities work together to identify and address potential hazards in their neighborhoods?
What innovative solutions can be developed to further reduce the risk of avian electrocutions?

By addressing these questions and working collaboratively, we can prevent future tragedies and ensure that Phoenix neighborhoods are safe for both people and wildlife.