Perceptibility and Electrophysiological Response of Small Birds to Intense 60-HZ Electric Fields

The exposure of living systems, both animal and plant1 to extremely low frequency (ELF) electric fields is increasing as the everyday use of electricity in the modern world grows. Unfortunately, little experimental data are available on possible biological effects of such exposure. Hence, unresolved questions associated with the increased use of electrical energy include the nature of biological effects, if any, associated with energy transmission over networks of power lines. Without such information, planners, legislators, and the public will continue to react to the contradictory charges of positive, negative or neutral biological effects of such exposure with concern and confusion.