Research reveals that red-throated divers are being displaced from winter habitat by offshore windfarms

 

Red-throated diver - a bird that dreads wind turbines
(photo Peter Massas/Flickr via Wikimedia Commons) 

A WORRYING note has been sounded on the impact on red-throated divers of offshore windfarms  in the North Sea where many spend winter.

Newly-published research in Scientific Reports has confirmed that the 'scarecrow' effect of turbines is causing the birds to stay outside windfarms by between 10km and 24km.

Says lead author of the report Stefan Garthe: "Reduced availability of prime habitat and the consequently inferior foraging options may represent risks for diver populations through reduced body condition, delayed departure to breeding areas and lower reproductive success.

"The observed decline in numbers from before to after the establishment of the offshore windfarms indicates a strong negative pressure on divers in the south-eastern North Sea."

The research was carried out in German waters but it reflects findings elsewhere in the North Sea including British waters where there are many windfarms.

Mr Garthe believes there needs to be greater cross-border collaboration between research institutions, governments, and developers.

He concludes: "We have no doubt that renewable energies should provide a large share of our future energy demands.

"However, decisions taken at political and societal levels should also take into account the existing biodiversity crisis.

"They should aim to minimize the costs to less-adaptable species, such as red-throated divers, for which the North Sea has long provided a predictable food source."

The research was carried out at five offshore windfarms in German waters