White storks migrating between Europe and sub-Saharan Africa face electrocution, collision with power lines and poisoning, causing significant welfare burdens.
Electrocution causes immediate death or severe burns requiring euthanasia. Power line collisions result in broken wings or legs that are rarely survivable in wild birds. Pesticide poisoning through locust control in Africa causes subacute suffering over hours to days. Targeted infrastructure modification — insulating pylons, marking lines — can substantially reduce the welfare toll.