ElectroRevolution

Electrocution of birds is a global concern recognized as a priority issue to be addressed in the context of species conservation. Birds of prey are particularly susceptible to electrocution because of their size and habit of using power line supports as perches, for resting and hunting. Sardinia is home to a rich avifauna, including many species of vultures and birds of prey. An analysis at regional scale revealed that out of 111 animals found dead/injured, 26% had injuries caused by electrocution. Among the affected species there are are the Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus, the Common Buzzard Buteo buteo but also the Sardinian Goshawk Accipiter gentilis arrigonii, the Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus the Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus, the Barn Owl Tyto alba and, more recently, the Osprey Pandion haliaetus, the Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos and the Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus (data from the regional Forestry Corps and the region's recovery centres; years 2014-2017).

The Aquila a-Life project (2017-2022) aimed, among others, at the reintroduction of Bonelli's Eagle in Sardinia. From 2018 to 2022, 32 chiks were released, all equipped with GPS-GSM tags to monitor their movements, which generally showed excellent adaptability to their new environment, with a particular attraction for wetlands. The reintroduced eagles also led to a sad discovery: about 50% of the overall mortality is due to electrocution. This awareness led to the ElectroRevolution project, funded by the Segrè Foundation and implemented by Ispra with the support of Forestas, Grefa and e-distribution. The project tackles the problem of electrocution for the benefit of bird conservation in Sardinia, and in particular birds of prey, and foresees the retrofitting of about 130 supports that are dangerous for birds, using the methodology developed within the Life Aquila a-Life project.