Abstract
Scotland’s high number of proposed wind farms has created a need for spatial planning to mitigate bird collisions and promote conservation. A map has been developed that focuses on addressing this problem. A bird sensitivity map helps developers choose locations that are optimal for bird safety. This map in particular was created using 16 bird species that were high conservation priority as well as statutory Special Protection Areas.
The map was created using a unique software client called MapInfo Professional. The map has an overlapping effect, which highlights differing bird sensitivity areas. The highest bird sensitivity is in northwest Scotland, western, and northern isles. 37% of Scotland is identified as being high risk with another 38% considered low or unknown risk. Additionally, the map highlights areas that are sensitive to different species within selected regions.