ELECTROCUTIONS

You can find many of our predatory birds simply by looking up at power poles while driving down the road. The poles provide the perfect hunting perches as the birds wait for their next prey to pass by. But these perches come with a risk both to the bird and our power. 

If the poles are not insulated, one quick graze of a wing while a bird is perched on the wrong wire could mean trouble--usually death for the bird and sometimes loss of power to homes and businesses. Power surges can also take out expensive electronics and pump houses. Sending crews out for emergency maintenance to fix equipment ultimately leads to higher utility costs too. 

It’s important we all work together to keep our power running smoothly and our birds flying free. 

If you happen to find an animal you suspect has been electrocuted, please report it to the authorities by documenting it properly: 

1. Take a picture of the bird for identification. 
2. Take a picture of the bird’s position in relation to the pole.
3. Take a few pictures of the equipment up top where he was perched. 
4. Take a picture of the pole identification number. This will also tell you what utility company it belongs to.
5. Use mapping software to pinpoint the exact location, and document cross streets.
6. Contact Arizona Game Thief at (800) 352-0700.
7. Contact the utility company that owns the equipment.

Reporting electrocutions takes a bit of time; however, it greatly benefits the birds, our power, and our health.

If you have any questions or are having difficulty contacting the utility company, we are here to help.