The estimation of the death rate for birds killed through electrocution on 6-10 kV power lines in Orenburg steppe landscapes

This report provides some outcomes for bird death survey on 6-10 kV power lines in the Orenburg Region, Russia in 2010–2012. In total, remains of 714 birds pertaining to 21 species were found. In this sample, 48 individuals (6,72%) were recognized as Red Data Book ones including the Long-legged Buzzard, Imperial Eagle, Steppe Eagle and Lesser Kestrel species. Rooks, jackdaws, magpies and common kestrels perished more frequently. Among the Red Data Book species group the Imperial Eagle and Steppe Eagle were found to be the most common victims. Increased death loss of large rare birds of prey from the electric current was observed visually in areas of concentration of livestock in pastures with varying degrees of grazing.