Since its first days of operation, TransGard has sounded the warning about the risks that animals pose to the nation’s electrical grid. Now, the national consumer media is beginning to take notice.

In this recent feature, ABC News departs from the usual “sneaky squirrel shuts down Main Street” tone and highlights the very real — and expensive — danger that climbing animals and birds introduce when they come in contact with elements of the power distribution system, not only in the U.S, but around the world.

Michigan is considering legislation that would require utilities to compensate customers affected by power outages: bill credits, local government reimbursements, and more.