Posted: Sep
21, 2018 06:20 PM EDT
Updated: Sep
21, 2018 06:20 PM EDT
Local
power companies and wildlife conservationists are joining forces due to a
re-emergence of one bird species and the problems they're posing.
The First
Energy Power Corporation has started a project in six states including
Pennsylvania to address a growing problem presented by a particular species of
bird. They're working with State Representative Parke Wentling and
conservation groups to provide a solution.
Wentling
tells us, "...osprey build a very large nest. It can actually go across
the entire length of the top of a power line."
This bird
of prey is returning to the area after decades on the threatened species list.
As of last year, they are no longer considered threatened but they do remain a
protected species.
Sarah
Sargent, Executive Director of the Erie Bird Observatory, says, "Actually,
there was a number of reintroduction programs and so forth over the years.
But now, we actually have this nice, healthy population that is
growing".
These
birds once built their nests atop the tall, straight trees in the area, but
many of those were cut down to build ships. Which, according to
conservation experts, power poles are a great substitute. But their nests
are causing issues, putting themselves and the public at risk.
Environmental
Scientist for First Energy, Amy Ruszala, tells us, "They cause a lot of
power outages. It is endangering to the birds. They also can cause
a pole fire which is dangerous for the public but for the bird as well."
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