Graphic illustrates wind energy impacts to birds

Mon., Nov. 25, 2013

Wind farms such as the one shown above at Altamont Pass in California are killing hundreds of thousands of birds each year, according to the American Bird Conservancy. Wind turbines -- depending on their size, location and speed of the blades -- have been identified as a lethal threat to birds and bats. (Photo: Mike Parr / American Bird Conservancy)

By Rich Landers richl@spokesman.com (509) 459-5508

WILDLIFE — Following last week’s milestone court settlement in which Duke Energy will pay $1 million to mitigate for the deaths of golden eagles and other birds caused by wind turbines in Wyoming, Northwest Public Radio featured this EarthFix graphic to help explain in simple terms the threats unrefined wind farms pose to bird populations.

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