Birds of Prey
 

Soaring high above in the South Carolina sky, or nesting atop SCE&G power poles, birds of prey are symbols of our state's natural beauty.

SCE&G's Raptor Protection Program has established formal guidelines for protecting these majestic creatures, particularly large raptors such as the American Bald Eagle, as well as numerous other bird species. The program, designed to minimize the dangers posed to birds by power lines, provides a systematic method for identifying high-risk poles and nesting sites, tracking incidents and taking measures to make sure the birds are protected. In some cases, our efforts involve modifying our electrical equipment with perch guards, flight diverters or other protective hardware.

The Department of Natural Resources tracks over 200 eagle nests in the state, which we in turn incorporate into our Geographical Information System (GIS) to determine how close they are to SCE&G power lines. We evaluate each nest near our lines and modify those that present a high risk of electrocution and/or collision. Right-of-Way crews also limit construction and maintenance of lines during eagle nesting season.

In recent years, the eagle population has been struck by a deadly neurological disease called Avarian Vacuolar Myelinopathy (AVM). AVM is considered the most significant cause of unknown eagle death in U.S. history. SCE&G is sponsoring research to help scientists and biologists investigate the hypothesis that toxic algae growing on the aquatic weed hydrilla that birds consume is the cause of AVM.

Another example of our commitment to protecting birds of prey is the extraordinary effort of our crews to accommodate ospreys, graceful birds to whom SCE&G's transmission and distribution poles have proven irresistible. Though osprey nests can weigh up to half a ton, SCE&G crews have erected numerous platforms to provide a safe place for the birds to nest.

SCE&G is also a strong supporter of community efforts to protect birds and their habitat. We are a proud member of the South Carolina Center for Birds of Prey in Charleston, S.C. and have developed and maintained a mutually beneficial relationship with the non-profit, private organization over the years.