What happened
WWF-Türkiye, Doğa Derneği, Eko Alan and Kuş Kolektifi have issued a joint appeal seeking action to reduce bird deaths linked to electricity infrastructure across Türkiye. More than 70 organisations have supported the initiative.
The appeal followed the discovery of 106 storks killed by electric current at a single point on the railway line at Tahtakale, Istanbul, during summer 2026. Further reported deaths associated with transmission and distribution infrastructure in other provinces indicate that the issue is not confined to one area.
The signatories call for immediate insulation work and visible markings at known high-risk lines. They also seek a National Migration Routes Safety Action Plan involving public authorities, Turkish Electricity Transmission Corporation (TEİAŞ), Turkish State Railways (TCDD), regional distribution companies and private line owners.
Why it matters
Türkiye lies on a major route between Europe and Africa used by migratory birds. The groups say large, soaring species, including storks and vultures, face particular danger where they perch on or encounter unprotected poles and wires.
For rail and electricity infrastructure operators, the request points to practical risk-management measures: identifying hazardous sites, fitting protective insulation, improving line visibility and monitoring incidents during migration seasons. The appeal also asks for a shared national database of bird deaths and observations to guide interventions.
Background
The organisations want risk mapping to prioritise railway, transmission and distribution lines along migration corridors, particularly in Thrace and the Marmara region. They also call for stronger national rules to ensure wildlife-friendly infrastructure practices.
According to the groups, habitat loss, hunting and agricultural chemicals are among the other pressures on migratory birds in Türkiye.
What's next
The joint call asks the Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change, the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure, the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to coordinate a response. It was issued in connection with World Migratory Bird Day on 10 October 2026.
