In the Kyiv region, almost 500 storks settled in protective platforms installed by energy workers

This was reported by the press service of DTEK Kyiv Regional Electric Networks.

During May-June, the company’s specialists checked special protective platforms for stork nests, which had been installed in the Kyiv region for two years. According to estimates, storks have inhabited more than 90% of previously installed “safe nests”.

“Due to hostilities, the energy infrastructure of Kyiv region in some cities and villages was totally destroyed and our specialists had to restore again. Therefore, we understood that because of the war, not all storks had a place to return this year. Taking care of the safety of the birds, our experts checked whether the nests on the installed platforms, and the birds are not in danger. According to ecologists, almost 500 birds have settled in “safe houses”, 270 of which are fledglings. This is a good sign. After all, if the storks have returned to our nests, we believe that peace will soon return to our Ukraine,” the company said.

In two years, the energy industry transferred 99 nests to safe platforms. At the end of last year, 58 platforms were installed as part of a ecological and educational project.

Special platforms were installed on electric poles, where storks built their nests, for the safety of the birds. They did it in the fall – while the storks flew to warmer regions. Artificial nesting platforms are sturdy baskets made of metal rods. They are attached to the electrical support above the level of the electrical wires. This design prevents the heavy nest from slipping on the line. It protects the nest from destruction, birds from electric shock, and lines from short circuits and unplanned disconnections.

In addition to the platforms, in 2021 workers have installed more than 500 special covers on power lines to protect birds from electrocution, as well as 30 artificial nesting boxes for short-eared owls and screech owls.

Photo: press service