Raptors, including hawks, eagles, osprey, falcons, kites and owls, and other endangered and migratory birds are often attracted to power lines and use power poles and towers as perches and nesting spots. Unfortunately, a bird with a large wingspan that lands on the cross-arm of a utility pole can be electrocuted if its wings contact two electrical components. Since 1988, Southern California Edison has operated its Raptor Protection Program to protect raptors from electrocution and prevent power outages.
SCE's Raptor Protection Program consists of three main strategies: modifying lines to be "raptor-proof," providing safe perch sites, and protecting active nests.
Under the Raptor Protection Program, wherever raptor electrocution is identified as a problem, power lines are altered to prevent contact. In addition, we are installing platforms on our structures to give raptors a safe place to nest.
If an active raptor nest is found on a distribution pole, it must be moved if it presents a hazard. All field employees are trained in raptor protection and are required to report these nests to our biologists in Environmental Affairs prior to attempting to move them. If the nest is active and must be moved, permits are arranged through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG). All necessary steps are taken to minimize the disturbance.
To enhance its Raptor Protection Program, SCE is developing a geographical information system database to show where raptor electrocutions occur and determine any trends. Other measures include more training of field personnel and planners, a unified reporting system for transmission and distribution, and systematic raptor protection surveys.