Why do bats fly into turbines?
Every year, migratory bats move from the winter to summer roosts in the spring and then back to the winter roosts in late summer and early fall. Different scientists have put forth several theories why bats collide with wind turbines:
Every year, migratory bats move from the winter to summer roosts in the spring and then back to the winter roosts in late summer and early fall. Different scientists have put forth several theories why bats collide with wind turbines:
- Bats may mistake wind turbines for large trees they can roost in.
- Bats mistake the shiny, reflective surface of turbines for sources of water.
- Bats don't use echolocation during some periods of migration as they are already familiar with the routes.
- Bats are simply curious about what the wind turbines are.
In any case, as bats approach the turbines, they're likely looking for a place to rest, simply travelling through the area, or flying after prey. Too often, the blades seriously injure or kill the bats.
Reducing the risk
According to natural resource researcher Edward Arnett and Roel May, having the turbines start spinning at slightly higher wind speeds has been shown to reduce bat deaths by 50-60%. Read the complete paper in Human-Wildlife Interactions.
Learn more about what the National Park Service is doing to protect bats and their habitats.
Last updated: October 7, 2016