Home / Environment / Costa Rica's Power Lines Pose Deadly Threat to Wildlife
Costa Rica's Power Lines Pose Deadly Threat to Wildlife
4 Jun
Summary
- Electrocution on power lines is a major cause of wildlife death in Costa Rica.
- A court ruling mandates action to make power lines safer for animals.
- Development is increasing electrocution incidents as habitats fragment.
Electric shock from power lines represents a major cause of wildlife mortality in Costa Rica. In response, the nation's constitutional court ruled in January that the Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) and the Ministry of Environment and Energy (MINAE) must implement effective measures to prevent wildlife electrocution on uninsulated power lines within six months. This landmark decision stems from a campaign by conservation organizations, including International Animal Rescue Costa Rica (IARCR), which reported 108 electrocution incidents in 2025 alone, with howler monkeys accounting for up to 90% of cases.
Increased development in tourist areas has led to new electrocution hotspots, forcing rescues further into forests. Primates often mistake power lines for trees, leading to severe injuries or death. While the ruling specifically addresses the Nosara district, its implications are expected to be nationwide. Conservationists hope this will compel electricity providers to adopt safety measures, such as insulated cables or protective pole devices, to safeguard biodiversity.
The problem of wildlife electrocution is global, particularly affecting primates in tropical forests. Fragmented habitats exacerbate the issue, with power lines becoming perceived as pathways between isolated forest patches. Solutions like insulated cables and artificial canopy bridges are being explored to mitigate these risks. A three-year action plan is anticipated from MINAE and ICE by the end of June.
