Abstract
This proof-of-concept study helped determine if acoustic recorders are effective tools for identifying bird and bat species in the vicinity of offshore wind turbines. For birds, dual-channel acoustic recorders were installed at two Block Island Wind Farm turbines from 2017-2020, collecting more than two million acoustic files. For bats, acoustic recorders were installed at similar locations and operated over the same period. Data from the bird acoustic study provided guidance for improving methods and placement, and will inform monitoring activities at projects under development. Data from the bat study provided information on seasonal and temporal activity patterns and species composition.
This document is related to the Block Island Wind Farm Project Site.