TransGard’s full-spectrum approach to bird intrusion at substations reviews all options — from habitat modification to disruptive sensory devices
As we outlined in our most recent blog post, TransGard has always worked to expand solutions to prevent animals from entering electrical substations. This holds true for threats from the air as well from the ground.
Bird activity at industrial sites and substations poses serious risks: equipment damage, flashovers, contamination, regulatory fines, and health threats like viruses and parasites contained in dried bird droppings. A full spectrum mitigation strategy against birds integrates a range of deterrents to create an environment that birds actively avoid, without harm to the birds or disruption to operations.
Here are a few examples:
Optical deterrents Visual devices exploit birds’ strong reliance on sight, and creates the perception of danger. These devices include laser systems, reflective materials, and predator decoys that trigger an instinctive avoidance response without causing harm.
Auditory interference Sound is also a powerful tool in the disruption of bird communication, comfort, or perceived safety. These auditory deterrents include broadband noise emitters and species-specific distress, or alarm calls designed to discourage birds from occupying or returning to an area.
Structural & Habitat Modification The act of altering a substation’s physical environment can reduce its suitability for birds to roost, nest, or forage. Modifications can include installing bird-proof barriers, eliminating elements that attract insects (like standing water or non-bug repellent lights), and creating alternative structures to direct activity away from critical equipment.
Aversion Conditioning Introducing negative sensory experiences, in addition to disruptive audio and visual cues, also teaches birds to avoid designated areas. These negative sensory materials can include UV-reflective gels, tactile repellents, or taste deterrents, all of which are non-lethal and cause birds to associate the affected space with discomfort.
Smart Monitoring & Adaptation The application of real-time observation tools, such as cameras, drones, or sensors to track bird activity helps substation owners and managers adjust deterrent strategies accordingly. This data-driven approach ensures continuous effectiveness by adapting to seasonal patterns, species behavior, and site-specific risks.
Staff Training & Response Training personnel to identify risks from birds, and maintain mitigation systems, prepares the entire facility to more accurately and rapidly respond to intrusions. Field staff should be trained to safely operate, inspect, and maintain the variety of deterrents as part of routine operations.
Owners and operators should also implement protocols for documenting and responding to bird incursions to improve future mitigation.
A layered, science-informed approach is the most effective way to keep animals out and the power on. If you’d like a free site audit to see how this approach might help protect your substation, get in touch with us via our contact page.