Bat fatalities at wind turbines: Investigating the causes and consequences

Product Type: Science Feature

Year: 2006

Author(s): Cryan, P

Suggested Citation:
Cryan, P. 2006. Bat fatalities at wind turbines: Investigating the causes and consequences. http://www.fort.usgs.gov//BatsWindmills/.

Abstract

In the push to develop new forms of sustainable energy, the wind power industry is at the forefront. Turbines that harness the power of wind already serve as effective power sources across the globe, and this proven effectiveness has led to vast increases in the number of turbines currently under construction. The general impact of wind turbines on the environment is likely far less than that of conventional power sources. However, recent evidence shows that certain species of bats are particularly susceptible to mortality from wind turbines. Bats are beneficial consumers of harmful insect pests, and migratory species of bats cross international and interstate boundaries...