At NIE Networks we take bird fouling very seriously, but unfortunately the problem is outside of our control and no permanent solution exists to counteract it.
Over the years we’ve trialled many devices on our network such as bird distress signals, fake birds of prey, pyrotechnics and the fitting of plastic hairbrush rollers. Time and experience has taught us that no one device is available to us that will work in all situations or will provide a remedy for built-up residential areas.
For example, the use of rollers is restrictive and we only offer them in very limited circumstances, as there are several factors that influence our decision:
- Overhead lines are designed to strict standards and built to withstand many stresses and strains of weather, hot and cold temperatures etc. The addition of rollers can add an extra burden on the line and can cause conductors to fail.
- Rollers have a limited life span, they tend to deteriorate quickly and fall from the line.
- Fitting rollers in residential areas merely moves the issues onto adjacent homes. It is particularly important that we maintain a fair and consistent approach when dealing with bird fouling complaints.
- In rural situations it may be possible to fit bird rollers where this does not impact on other customers. Each case is assessed individually and where it is possible to fit the plastic rollers, the cost of carrying out this work has to be paid by the customer.