The danger of wind power on larger birds

[rolf]

Was a bit of a disbeliever on the general danger to birds of wind power, but this video certainly illustrates that there can be problems.



Article on the subject

[ladylouise62]

It's hard to watch things like that, isn't it? There are so many things that kill wildlife, but it's always an issue with the large birds as there are so few of them, but I would be interested in how many are killed especially in comparison to other things like planes or power station intake grills (as mentioned on another vid on youtube).

[rolf]

Yes, a very upsetting video, but needs to be seen.

[Catherine]

What is so weird is that the bird circles the turbine several times before seemingly challenging it to strike.

Does it see the turbine as a challenge, an intruder, or a game?

Does it not realise it is going to be hit?

Could warning sounds deter birds from going so close?

It is impossible to get into the mind of that bird, but I'd have though that since the turbine was moving through the air, yet stationary on the ground, it would have stayed clear. really worrying!

[ladylouise62]

I did wonder about that too, Catherine - even though it is 'alien' surely it must have wondered about the safety of the movement? Hopefully it was just a really stupid bird (I'm sure they get them in the animal world as they certainly get them in the human world) and that most wouldn't be so stupid - I really hope so!