Impact of wind energy to birds and bats in the Coquimbo Region, north-central Chile

Abstract

This paper analyzed the baseline studies and post-construction fatality monitoring of five wind farms in the Coquimbo Region, north-central Chile. A total of 408 bird fatalities have been reported, including 49 species, being the most relevant the Andean condor (Vultur gryphus), and 186 bats, including six species. The baseline studies were focused on walked transects at dawn and dusk, which are unsuitable for large soaring birds such as raptors. The current fatality monitoring protocol is discussed taking into account factors such as the number of wind turbines and people in charge of monitoring, frequency of visits, and search time per wind turbine. None of the studies took into account the biases associated with this type of work (observer efficiency or carcass removal rates, or determination of the search area) neither made appropriate mortality estimates. The birds and bats collided so far are species with a favorable conservation status, but the shortcomings detected may have overlooked species of greater conservation concern, as has been the case of the condor. With the existing information, the thresholds established in the RCA’s may have been exceeded, despite the conclusion that the impacts of wind energy on birds and bats are minimal in the Coquimbo Region. There is an urgent need for 1) a review of environmental monitoring protocols in accordance with international standards and 2) training at all levels of the personnel involved in the monitoring and control process, including the government officials, consultants and developers.