The influence of small wind turbines on bat activity in Eastern Hokkaido

Abstract

Renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines, are a vital component of greenhouse gas emission reduction strategies worldwide. Although the small wind turbine sector is undergoing rapid growth, its influence on bats remains poorly understood. In this study, we clarified the influence of small wind turbines on bat activity in eastern Hokkaido, Japan. We found that Eptesicus nilssonii and Nyctalus/Vespertilio species were more active near wind turbines than in control sites at least 100 m from the turbines. In Myotis species, we detected no clear relationship between bat activity and wind turbine presence; because these bats did not avoid wind turbines, they may be at risk of turbine blade collisions. Our results suggest that small wind turbines may negatively influence a range of bat species.