Direct Collision: Birds flying near or at the same height as wind turbines can collide with the spinning blades. Collisions often occur during low-light conditions, such as dawn and dusk, when birds have poor visibility. The fast rotation of the blades and the fact that birds are unable to detect them can lead to fatal injuries.
Barotrauma: The rapid change in air pressure around wind turbines can cause barotrauma, which is similar to decompression sickness experienced by divers. When birds fly near the turbines, the sudden drop in pressure can rupture their lungs and internal organs, leading to death.
Habitat Loss: The construction of wind farms often requires clearing and modifying natural habitats, which can displace or destroy nesting and feeding areas for birds. This loss of habitat can directly affect bird populations and may also impact the local ecosystem.
Disturbance and Displacement: The noise, movement, and visual presence of wind turbines can disturb and displace birds from their natural habitats. This disruption can affect their feeding, breeding, and migration patterns, potentially impacting their survival and productivity.
Electrocution: In some cases, birds can come into contact with electrical wires or components associated with wind turbines, resulting in electrocution. This is a less common cause of bird mortality compared to direct collision or barotrauma.
Mitigation Measures: To minimize the impact on birds, wind farm developers implement various mitigation strategies. These include strategically siting turbines to avoid sensitive areas, using bird deterrents, adjusting the operational speed of the turbines during high-risk periods, and conducting regular monitoring to assess the impact on bird populations. Continuous research and technological advancements are also being pursued to further reduce bird mortality caused by wind turbines.