Birds and the electricity network

At Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE), we regularly receive enquiries from customers experiencing problems with birds roosting on overhead power lines close to or above their property.  We also receive calls from customers who experience a power cut due to birds striking the overhead lines.

Bird fouling

Bird fouling is classified as a vermin problem that affects electricity equipment, airports, town centres, landmark buildings and farmland. 

Starlings cause the most common instances of bird fouling in residential areas. They flock in large numbers, usually at the same time each day, attracted by insects and grubs contained in gardens and by feeding from householders. In town centres, buildings often provide the highest vantage point in the area, though in rural and residential areas the birds tend to use overhead power lines, as they perceive them to be safe for roosting.

Birds striking overhead power lines

Birds coming into contact with overhead lines can cause interruptions to power supplies. In particular swans and geese, which migrate to Northern Ireland from the Arctic Region during the winter months, increase the risk of this happening. The birds find it difficult to see the power lines and have limited ability to manoeuvre when flying close to them. Darkness and poor weather conditions, such as fog, rain or snow, may make the lines invisible to them.