Spatial models of bird migration estimate collision risk with turbines

figure from Liechti et al (2013)

Maps of Switzerland showing (A) absolute migratory intensities (birds/h/km) and (B) three levels of estimated collision risk with wind turbines (green: low risk, yellow: medium risk, orange: high risk).

Check out this new paper out of Switzerland that uses a spatially explicit model to map broad front migration and anticipate conflicts between migratory birds and wind turbines. The authors use radar, ground observation, and topography to parameterize their model. They also look at differences between spring and fall migration and under different wind conditions. The resulting maps outline areas of low, medium, and high risk (left).

Read the paper in Biological Conservation

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