As concerns over global climate change rise, interest in renewable energy has increased dramatically. As a result, the development of wind energy facilities has expanded around the world. While wind energy is perhaps one of the most promising in terms of its ecological footprint, it is not without cost, potentially posing great risk to birds and bats. One species of particular concern for the proposed Sempra Generation’s Energia Sierra Juarez Wind Project in northern Baja California, Mexico is the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), the national bird of Mexico and US-protected species under the Eagle Protection Act. This project provides the opportunity to examine the golden eagle population before wind turbine construction and use the results to inform the placement and operation of wind turbines. The main objectives of this research are to investigate the spatial and behavioral ecology of this species and identify ways to reduce or avoid potential impacts to their population.
Results/Conclusions
We performed annual aerial nest searches over the past two years in order to determine the number and location of active breeding pairs, as well as past breeding sites. In addition, we captured, marked, and attached PTT GPS transmitters to resident golden eagles within the proposed wind project site. With remotely sensed data, we used GIS to classify habitat. By monitoring the movement patterns of golden eagles and identifying the habitat and wind conditions associated with high use, we are able to delineate areas of increased risk of mortality posed by wind turbines and provide a more accurate risk assessment prior to construction. Ultimately, we will use the data to create a spatially explicit population model that can be used in future wind development projects to minimize risk of mortality to golden eagles. Monitoring efforts, such as this, will greatly assist in the evaluation of the impacts of wind energy facilities, enhance the protection of species, and allow for the efficacious use of a clean energy source.
