Assessing the impact of electric power lines on birds in the Central Kazakhstan Steppe

Vera Voronova

Central Kazakhstan steppe comprises a very large area crossed by thousands of kilometres of power-lines. These man-made structures are thought to be advantageous for birds that use the treeless steppe during migration. The main goal of the project is to investigate the impact of power-line electrocution and collision on populations of some bird species in Kazakhstan, in particular threatened raptors. Very few small-scale studies have been implemented in Central Kazakhstan, a region crossed by three important migration flyways. We will use our research results to make recommendations to decision makers and will try to discuss potential solutions.