Tekirdağ: 30 Storks Killed by Electrocution; 'We're Seeing This Many for the First Time'
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Approximately 30 storks were found dead along a high-voltage power line in Marmaraereğlisi, Tekirdağ, believed to have died from electrocution.
- Local environmental volunteers expressed shock at the high number of deaths, noting it as an unprecedented event for the area.
- They urged for the undergrounding of power lines and for greater attention to the birds' migration route, while the electricity company pledged to investigate and conduct maintenance.
A shocking discovery of around 30 dead storks has been made near a high-voltage power line in Marmaraereğlisi, Tekirdağ. The birds are believed to have died after coming into contact with the electrical current.
Mine Olgaç, head of the Marmaraereğlisi Environmental Volunteers Association, described the scene as unprecedented, stating, "We are encountering this many deaths for the first time. This means there is a very serious problem." She suggested that the electrocution is the likely cause and emphasized the urgent need to bury the power lines underground.
Unfortunately, dozens of storks lie dead by the roadside. I think this happens every year, but we are encountering this many for the first time. This means there is a very serious problem. They say they die by touching the electric wires. I think burying these power poles underground as soon as possible would be of great benefit.
Olgaç also pointed out that the region lies on the storks' migration path, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and protective measures. She added that the power lines can also spark fires when they touch in windy conditions.
Following the incident, Trakya Elektrik Dağıtım A.Ş. (TREDAŞ) officials stated they would conduct a detailed inspection of the area and carry out necessary maintenance work.
Our district is on the storks' migration route, so I think more attention should be paid. Whatever is necessary should be done. We are here too, let's do whatever is necessary and contribute.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.