Assessing exposure to wind turbines of a migratory raptor through its annual life cycle across continents (Assandri et al., 2024)

Unsustainable fossil fuel emissions have driven a global shift toward renewable energy sources, such as wind, resulting in significant wind power infrastructure expansion, often conflicting with biodiversity conservation. Birds and bats, particularly migratory species, are vulnerable to collisions with wind turbines, leading to population declines and potential local extinctions. This study assessed wind turbine exposure for the lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni), a colonial migratory raptor of European conservation concern. Using data from over 1800 colonies and GPS tracking of more than 350 individuals across Iberian, Italian, and Balkan populations, we found that 26% of the European lesser kestrel population has at least one wind turbine within their foraging areas, with Italian colonies being most at risk. The Natura 2000 network, Europe’s primary protected area network, was insufficient in reducing turbine-related threats to breeding populations. GPS tracking showed negligible exposure in non-breeding areas in Africa (Sahel region), but higher risks during migration and lower risks during breeding in Iberian and Balkan birds, though Italian kestrels faced consistent high exposure. Different countries need tailored strategies to mitigate collision risks with wind power infrastructure. This study provides valuable insights for balancing biodiversity conservation with renewable energy development.

· Enlace https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2024.110592

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Ayuda PTR2022-001249 financiada por:

UNION EUROPEA - FONDO EUROPEO DE DESARROLLO REGIONAL

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Assessing exposure to wind turbines of a migratory raptor through its annual life cycle across continents (Assandri et al., 2024)