Home / Environment / Sea Eagles Nest on Towers, Risking Chicks' Lives
Sea Eagles Nest on Towers, Risking Chicks' Lives
29 Jun
Summary
- Eagles now nest on telecom towers and pylons due to tree loss.
- Fledglings face electrocution risk from power lines after leaving nests.
- Researchers urge government to protect trees and train maintenance staff.
The dwindling availability of tall native trees along the Gulf of Mannar coast has led white-bellied sea eagles to adopt precarious nesting sites on telecom towers and electricity transmission pylons. This shift, observed over the past four years, presents a grave danger to young birds attempting their first flights, as they risk electrocution on nearby wires.
Researchers estimate approximately 40 breeding pairs of these coastal raptors inhabit Tamil Nadu. The white-bellied sea eagle, with a wingspan nearing seven feet for females, builds large nests. However, the new nesting locations also endanger maintenance workers who may unknowingly disturb active nests, facing potential attacks from adult eagles defending their young.
Conservationists have formally requested the Tamil Nadu government to implement measures such as protecting tall native trees and establishing nesting habitats. They also advocate for training electricity and telecom maintenance staff on identifying active nests and implementing awareness programs for field workers and local communities during the breeding season.
