Eagles and wind farms are a deadly combination. Studies suggest at least 67 eagles were killed in wind farms in the last five years. As wind facilities increase, so do the number of deaths.
Wind farms are clusters of wind turbines. Each turbine is between 150 and 280 feet tall. The smallest rotors are approximately 100 feet in diameter. They can rotate up to 170 mph.
Mike Parr, of the American Bird Conservancy, calls the numbers “alarming and concerning.” Wind energy is preferred, as it reduces pollution. However, the large turbines are dangerous for birds .
As reported by ABC News , 85 golden and bald eagles were killed by wind turbines in the last 10 years. A majority of the deaths occurred after 2008.
Researchers expect the numbers are actually much higher. As they deaths are reported voluntarily, some companies may be reluctant to share the information.
The study also excluded the Altamont Pass in California. Wind farms in the Pass are estimated to kill at least 60 eagles every year.
The American Wind Energy Association says that wind turbines are responsible for only a fraction of eagle deaths. However, they acknowledge that there is a problem.
The association says they are working with conservation groups to reduce bird injury and death.
The government has received stark criticism for failing to enforce laws against killing eagles. Wind farms simply are not held responsible for the deaths.
In one case, a bald eagle was injured by a turbine owned by EDP Renewables North America. The eagle’s wing and leg were severed by one of the turbines.
Federal investigators failed to pursue charges against the company “due to the sensitive nature of wind farm investigations.”
As reported by Washington Times , eagles are protected under federal law . Criminal charges have never been filed against a wind energy company, despite numerous complaints.
Eagles and wind farms are a deadly combination. However, until the laws are enforced, wind energy facilities have little incentive to address the issue.
[Image via Flickr ]