The Sanjiangyuan nature reserve in northwest of the Chinese mainland has implemented an innovative solution to protect raptorial birds while ensuring the reliability of power transmission. By setting up artificial nests for upland buzzards, the reserve fosters a harmonious coexistence between wildlife and infrastructure.
The upland buzzard, a top predator in grassland ecosystems, primarily feeds on small herbivorous animals like pikas, voles, and marmots. As an indicator species, their presence reflects the health of the grassland ecosystem. Sanjiangyuan, located in the heart of the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau within southern Qinghai Province, is known as China's \"water tower\" due to it being the source of the Yangtze, Yellow, and Lancang rivers.
Established in 2000, the nature reserve protects one of the world's most fragile and pristine ecosystems, home to around 300 rare bird species, including over 20 raptors like golden eagles and saker falcons. However, the expansion of power supply networks in the area led to transmission towers becoming popular perches for large birds. These towers, while ideal for hunting, posed a risk to the stability of power lines due to bird droppings and debris causing circuit faults—a problem responsible for up to 30 percent of power outages.
Initial attempts to deter upland buzzards using bird repellers proved ineffective as the birds adapted quickly. Frustrated by the high failure rate, the power supply company pivoted to creating comfortable artificial nests. Collaborating with local herders and experts, they learned that upland buzzards prefer open cup nests that provide broad views for vigilance and easy access for feeding their chicks.
The first batch of 200 artificial nests was installed on transmission towers across Sanjiangyuan. Within weeks, buzzards began settling into the new nests, and the successful breeding of chicks marked a significant milestone for the project. Subsequent upgrades to the nest designs further enhanced their safety and comfort, leading to a notable decrease in bird-related outages. The tripping rate of 10-kilovolt lines caused by bird activities dropped by nearly 30 percent, showcasing the effectiveness of this eco-friendly approach.
This initiative not only safeguards the delicate ecosystem of Sanjiangyuan but also ensures the stability of critical power infrastructure. By blending conservation efforts with technological innovation, the Sanjiangyuan nature reserve serves as a model for sustainable coexistence between wildlife and human developments.
Reference(s):
Artificial nests protect birds, power grids in NW China's Sanjiangyuan
cgtn.com
