Bats

Bats are mammals of the order Chiroptera that can be divided into major groups. Megachiroptera are medium to large-sized bats that typically eat fruit, pollen, or nectar, while some eat small land animals or fish. Microchiroptera are smaller bats that typically eat insects. Bats are the only mammals capable of true flight thanks to their membranous wings and are considered at risk from collision with both land-based and offshore wind turbines.

While little is known about bats’ abilities to avoid artificial structures, they have been observed avoiding offshore wind turbines by increasing their flight altitudes while foraging. However, artificial lighting may attract insects toward wind energy turbines, which may encourage bats to remain in the vicinity. Collision risk remains the most common concern regarding bats and land-based wind and offshore wind energy.