Pigeon electrocution ignites 2.5‑hectare fire in Genis, Dordogne

On Monday, 3 August, a fire burned more than 2.5 hectares of vegetation in the commune of Genis in France’s Dordogne department. Investigators determined that the blaze started when a pigeon was electrocuted on a high‑voltage power line; the bird’s plumage ignited and fell onto dry grass, sparking the fire. Two fire‑engine trucks fought the flames for about an hour and a half, extinguishing it despite a historic drought that had left the area exceptionally dry. The mayor described the incident as “extremely rare.”

No injuries were reported, and the pigeon was found dead at the base of the line.