In order to achieve its climate protection goal, Deutsche Bahn is pushing ahead with the further electrification of its rail network, among other things. This also includes the construction and operation of the corresponding infrastructure.

To protect birds and other animal species from electric shocks and collisions on the catenary systems, DB is equipping them to be bird-proof. This reduces or prevents damage to the electrical installations and disruption to train services.

Measures to protect birds and small animals

Together with the German Centre for Rail Traffic Research (DZSF), Deutsche Bahn has been working on standardized solutions in various research projects. A new administrative regulation on bird protection (VogelschutzSchieneVwV) creates uniform nationwide standards and bundles all measures. These include so-called auxiliary constructions, such as measures on the cantilever tube or mast disconnectors as well as non-conductive, plastic-coated suspension cables under existing structures, which are already being used by DB InfraGO.

In addition, protective measures against line collisions have also been introduced in particularly affected areas - such as in breeding and resting areas for water birds and bustards. So-called black and white bird markers are intended to help ensure that cranes, geese and the like keep a sufficient distance from the catenary systems. These movable bird protection markers are attached to the horizontal lines of the catenary systems at regular intervals. DB also installs so-called small animal deflectors on existing lines.