In a significant move to protect the rare MacQueen’s Bustard (Chlamydotis macqueenii) species in the Abbas Abad Wildlife Refuge in Isfahan, safety measures have been implemented along 7 kilometers of regional power distribution lines. This was achieved by installing 450 spirals to prevent these birds from colliding with power lines during flight. The initiative, a collaboration between the AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society, the Isfahan Power Distribution Company, the Department of Environment, and the Committee for the Protection of Birds and Electrical Networks, was executed on February 28, 2019.

Status of Abbas Abad Wildlife Refuge

Abbas Abad Wildlife Refuge is one of the safest and most suitable habitats for the MacQueen’s Bustard in Iran. Despite the refuge being well-protected by environmental guards and local community support, the loss of bustards due to collisions with power lines has been a matter of great concern. This area, home to a significant population of MacQueen’s Bustards, has witnessed numerous instances where these precious birds have collided with power lines and perished from the resulting injuries.

 

From Idea to Implementation

The AvayeBoom Bird Conservation Society sprang into action in the summer of 2017 after being alerted to this issue by rangers and experts in the Abbas Abad region of Nain. Their mission to preserve bird life and habitats led them to negotiate with the Bird and Electrical Network Committee, a specialized group based in Markazi Province, Arak, focusing on reducing conflicts between power transmission networks and birds.

After the necessary consultations and correspondence, the Society engaged in discussions with the Isfahan Power Distribution Company and coordinated with the Isfahan Department of Environment. Finally, the power company agreed to fund and execute the safety project to reduce collisions of MacQueen’s Bustards with power lines in the area.

After the necessary consultations and correspondence, the Society engaged in discussions with the Isfahan Power Distribution Company and coordinated with the Isfahan Department of Environment. Finally, the power company agreed to fund and execute the safety project to reduce collisions of MacQueen’s Bustards with power lines in the area.

A Brief Introduction to the MacQueen’s Bustard

The MacQueen’s Bustard is a rare bird species in Iran, preferring desert and semi-desert habitats. Due to overhunting, drought, and habitat destruction, its population has declined. Currently, some areas in the country with high security and better habitat conditions serve as its home. The MacQueen’s Bustard is a large bird, with a wingspan reaching up to 145 centimeters. It is omnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, plants, and even some reptiles.

Project Impact

Since the implementation of the safety measures, there has been no evidence of any collisions of MacQueen’s Bustards with power lines in the area. We are conducting a scientific research study to monitor and report the long-term impact of this project. This ongoing research will help us assess the effectiveness of our efforts and guide future conservation strategies. This successful project demonstrates the effectiveness of collaborative conservation efforts and the impact of targeted interventions to protect vulnerable bird species.

Scientific Validation of Project Success

The results of this initiative have been published in the journal ECOPERSIA, highlighting the effectiveness of the spiral diverters installed along the power lines. This publication underscores the importance of collaborative conservation strategies and provides a valuable model for similar efforts worldwide. You can read the full article by clicking on the button.