Correlates of persistent electrocution-related mortality of raptors in Guelmim-Oued Noun province, Morocco

Abstract

Electrocution on poorly designed power pylons is one the most important human-related causes of large bird mortality worldwide. Raptor mortality caused by 22 kV distribution power lines was studied in south-west Morocco. We surveyed 323 pylons (53.5 km) and collected 65 carcasses of electrocuted raptors in the period 2016 to 2019. The species most affected by electrocution were Long-legged Buzzard and Bonelli’s Eagle (49.23% and 29.23%, respectively). Average electrocution rate was 0.201 carcasses pylon−1. Metal pylons, suspended insulators, devices and vaulted configuration had the highest electrocution events. Substitution or corrective measures should be applied on existing pylons that pose the greatest risk to resident breeding and threatened wintering raptors, such as Bonelli’s Eagle and Spanish Imperial Eagle in this area.