The environmental assessment processes used to approve wind turbines is rigorous and dedicates significant effort to protect wildlife and plant life, including at risk or endangered species, and specifically studies a project’s impact on birds. Projects will be designed, constructed, and operated following applicable environmental regulations and guidance.

Ongoing research and monitoring efforts focus on developing best practices to enhance turbine operation while protecting birds, demonstrating a commitment to balancing renewable energy needs with wildlife conservation.

More birds die from colliding with buildings than with wind turbines, and the margin is substantial. Studies in the US indicate that wind turbines are responsible for ~0.04% of bird deaths (1). Passenger vehicles and cats are responsible for ~900 times and ~10,000 times more bird fatalities respectively than wind turbines in the US (1).

Additionally, modern wind turbines are designed to be taller, which significantly reduces the risk to many bird species, particularly those that fly at lower altitudes. Technological advancements in turbine design, such as larger blades and improved siting strategies, further minimize interactions with wildlife.

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Threats to Birds: Migratory Bird Mortality – Questions and Answers.