Can an Avian Electrocution Risk Model From California Guide Retrofitting Throughout the Western United States?

Abstract A previously published model of avian electrocution risk, the “2014 model,” compared power poles that electrocuted birds (electrocution poles; including 21 golden eagle Aquila chrysaetos electrocutions) with not known to have (comparison poles). The 2014 produces pole-specific risk index scores between 0 and 1. rank relative so electric utilities can maximize conservation benefits per dollar spent by focusing retrofitting on greatest risk. Although creation encompassed a study population in southern California, has potential for use managing target raptors eagles throughout western United States. Use beyond California is only appropriate if similar enough predict effectively. To evaluate similarity, we examined five sources evidence: 1) consistency electrical safety codes 2) body sizes populations; structure-specific factors associated 3) electrocutions other studies, 4) electrocutions, 5) unreported electrocutions. We found although included relatively few eagles, data were sufficient create applicable also be useful helping determine equivalencies pole types seek compare small numbers high-risk large low-risk poles.