UV light technology keeps cranes safe during migration season

"It's UV lights that we can shine that is visible to the cranes and so it actually decreased the amount of collisions by up to like 80%," said Bethany Ostrom, a biological science technician at the Crane Trust.

WOOD RIVER, Neb. — The cranes in Central Nebraska will be kept safe during migration season by using UV light technology.

“It’s UV lights that we can shine that is visible to the cranes and so it actually decreased the amount of collisions by up to like 80%,” said Bethany Ostrom, a biological science technician at the Crane Trust.

Humans cannot see the light so it is not distracting, according to Ostrom.

“Just the way the cranes eyes are developed, they’re able to see it,” Ostrom said.

The lights are installed on two power lines and have been extremely effective, according to Dave Baasch, a threatened and endangered species specialist for the Crane Trust.

“Not only did it reduce collisions, but it increased their reaction time to the power lines which is another great benefit,” he said.

Baasch said the lights could cost anywhere between $15,000 and $25,000 but said they would be worth it as the new technology grows.

“It will definitely be technology that will be used on a lot of power lines in the United States,” said Baasch.