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Electrocution and collisions with power lines
Electrocution and collisions with power lines are serious accidents affecting large raptors such as the Australian eagle (Aquila audax). \n\nThis large bird of prey, with its impressive wingspan that can exceed two meters, is particularly e...
What is it?
Electrocution and collisions with power lines are serious accidents affecting large raptors such as the Australian eagle (Aquila audax). \n\nThis large bird of prey, with its impressive wingspan that can exceed two meters, is particularly exposed when it lands on electrical poles or pylons, or when it flies near high-voltage lines. \n\nIt is not a disease in the infectious sense, but a traumatic accident which can be fatal or leave significant after-effects.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Related signs — each one links to its page:
The signs vary depending on the severity of the accident. \n\nIn case of electrocution: visible burns often on the legs, wings or beak (points of contact with the electrical conductor), burned or broken feathers, lameness, difficulty standing, partial or total paralysis of a limb, tremors, convulsions, or even immediate cardiac arrest in the most serious cases. \n\nIn the event of collision with a cable: broken wings, legs or beak, open wounds, difficulty or inability to fly, bleeding, swelling, bird found on the ground unable to get up. \n\nIn both cases, the bird may be found shot, in shock, with pale mucous membranes indicating blood loss or circulatory shock.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Causes and risk factors
Electrocution occurs when the bird, while landing on a pole or pylon, simultaneously touches two elements under different voltage (two cables, or a cable and a metal part connected to earth), creating a short circuit through its body. \n\nCollision occurs when the bird in flight does not detect a taut cable in time, often during rapid flights, poor visibility (fog, night, strong light) or when it is focused on prey on the ground.
The great wingspan of the Australian eagle increases the risk of hitting two live points at the same time on electrical infrastructure. \n\nRural or semi-rural areas with many uninsulated utility poles, especially those providing a convenient perch for surveying territory or hunting, are high-risk locations. \n\nYoung, inexperienced birds and weakened or sick birds are more vulnerable because their flight reflexes are poorer. \n\nThe presence of prey (carrion, small mammals) near power lines attracts raptors to these dangerous areas.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
The veterinarian carries out a complete clinical examination looking for burns, fractures, wounds and signs of shock. \n\nX-rays make it possible to identify bone fractures and assess their severity. \n\nA blood test may be useful to assess general condition, kidney function and the presence of muscle damage linked to the electric shock. \n\nThe neurological examination assesses the extent of possible paralysis and its prognosis for recovery.
Treatment
The treatment is a life-threatening emergency requiring initial stabilization (warming, fluids, oxygen therapy if necessary). \n\nBurns are treated with specialist wound care and appropriate dressings. \n\nFractures may require immobilization or orthopedic surgery depending on their location and severity. \n\nPainkillers and anti-inflammatories are used to limit suffering. \n\nAntibiotic treatment may be added in the event of an open wound to prevent infection. \n\nFunctional rehabilitation is essential before any hope of releasing the bird into the wild.
Treatment depends on the cause and the animal's condition: it must be determined by a veterinarian. No self-medication.
Prevention
The isolation of dangerous electrical equipment (bare cables, transformers) in areas frequented by raptors is the most effective measure, carried out by electricity network managers. \n\nInstalling secure artificial perches away from dangerous points can divert birds from risky infrastructure. \n\nThe installation of visual beacons or signaling spirals on the cables reduces the risk of collision by improving their visibility. \n\nIncreasing the spacing between conductors on the new pylons limits the risk of simultaneous contact by a large bird of prey.
Possible complications
Complications include infection of wounds and burns, tissue necrosis sometimes requiring amputation of a limb, permanent paralysis, loss of flight ability compromising survival in the wild, and death from shock or organ failure in severe cases.
When to see a veterinarian
Eagle found on the ground unable to fly or stand.\nVisible burns on legs, wings or beak.\nDangling wing or obvious deformity of a limb.\nActive bleeding or significant open wound.\nConvulsions, tremors or paralysis after suspected shock.\nProstrate bird, not reacting normally to approach.
Prognosis
The prognosis strongly depends on the severity and location of the lesions. \n\nAn electrocution with extensive burns or a complex wing fracture often compromises the flight capacity and therefore the chances of releasing the bird into its natural environment. \n\nRapid treatment by a center specializing in wildlife clearly improves the chances of recovery. \n\nCertain birds with after-effects may be directed to conservation or education programs rather than released.
Frequently asked questions
Can an electrocuted Australian eagle survive?
Yes, survival is possible if the shock was not immediately fatal and if the bird receives veterinary care quickly. The prognosis depends on the extent of the burns and internal injuries.
How do you recognize that an eagle has been electrocuted rather than otherwise injured?
Characteristic burns on the legs, beak or wings, often associated with broken or charred feathers at the points of contact, point to electrocution. Only a veterinarian can confirm this diagnosis.
What should I do if I find an injured eagle near a power line?
You must avoid any direct contact for safety and to respect the regulations on protected wildlife, and immediately contact a wildlife care center or a veterinarian authorized to intervene.
Are these accidents common among large raptors?
Large raptors with wide wingspans such as the Australian eagle are statistically more exposed to this type of accident than small birds, due to their size which increases the risk of simultaneous contact with two live elements.
References
WOAH — Organisation mondiale de la santé animale (ex-OIE)
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 11 August 2026
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