Wind Energy Monitoring and Mitigation Technologies Tool

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As part of its mission to support the global deployment of wind energy through a better understanding of environmental issues, WREN has created a free, online tool to catalog monitoring and mitigating technologies developed to assess and reduce potential wildlife impacts resulting from land-based and offshore wind energy development. The tool will be continuously maintained and updated to ensure the international community has access to current, publicly available information on monitoring and mitigation solutions, their state of development, and related research on their effectiveness.

Results can be refined by selecting from the drop down menus or entering a search term. Listed monitoring and mitigation technologies are reviewed on an annual basis, but can be updated more frequently if needed, by emailing tethys@pnnl.gov. The wind energy community may also contribute additional technologies for consideration by filling out this survey.

You can also download the full list of monitoring and mitigation technologies or look up definition of terms used in this tool.

Displaying 1 - 40 of 97 technologies
Type Stressor & Receptor Technology Description Placement & Integration Research Summary Citations
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Operation
Displacement

Birds, Bats
3Bird
3Bird Radar Offshore System

3Bird Stabilized Offshore Radar System - stabilized ornithological radar for marine research on migrating birds detects automatically birds and bats on the open sea. 3Bird Radar has its own independent self-levelling system....Read more

3Bird Stabilized Offshore Radar System - stabilized ornithological radar for marine research on migrating birds detects automatically birds and bats on the open sea. 3Bird Radar has its own independent self-levelling system. The 3Bird - 3BROS Control software integrates tracking devices and is responsible for automatically adjusting the parameters of bird detection algorithms depending on the height of sea waves.

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Radar equipment are placed on vessels' decks.

No available documents.
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based

Planning, Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds, Bats
Accipiter Radar Corp.
Accipiter NM1-8A Avian Radar System

The Accipiter® NM1-8A Avian Radar System is a software-definable, 2D surveillance radar specifically designed to detect and track birds and bats....Read more

The Accipiter® NM1-8A Avian Radar System is a software-definable, 2D surveillance radar specifically designed to detect and track birds and bats. The system includes a radar sensor integrated into a NEMA-4 rated enclosure, which houses the radar sensor electronics, digital radar processors, radar remote controller, radar data manager, power management, and data communications components. The system can be upgraded to include a Deterrent Activation Processor which can trigger any number of radar-activate deterrent devices deployed to deter birds and bats.

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Mounted near wind farm

Small-Scale Field Study

Brand et al. (2011) tested and compared multiple types of radars. Criteria included automatic tracking, sampling protocols, data streaming, data integration, and data fusion....Read more

Brand et al. (2011) tested and compared multiple types of radars. Criteria included automatic tracking, sampling protocols, data streaming, data integration, and data fusion. The Accipiter AR-1 and AR-2 radars were installed at Seattle Tacoma International Airport in 2008 and 2007, and an AR-1 radar was deployed to NAS Whidbey Island in 2007. These sites were used in data streaming, data integration, and data fusion testing. Percentage of called targets confirmed by visual observers was between 52 and 65%.

Read less
Brand et al. 2011
Monitoring

Land-based, Offshore

Planning, Operation
Attraction, Avoidance, Turbine Collision

Bats, Birds
Normandeau Associates Inc.
Acoustic and Thermographic Offshore Monitoring (ATOM) system

The ATOM system represents a collection of multiple sensors designed to collect information about bird and bat activity in the rotor-swept zone of turbines, including species identifications, flux rates, and behavior....Read more

The ATOM system represents a collection of multiple sensors designed to collect information about bird and bat activity in the rotor-swept zone of turbines, including species identifications, flux rates, and behavior. Each ATOM system combines four types of wildlife sensors that collect data: thermal cameras operating in stereo, a visible-light camera, acoustic detectors for birds and bats, and a VHF receiver to detect wildlife fitted with Motus tags. Multiple sensor types allow the system to detect targets under a greater range of conditions than a single sensor type. System status can be checked using an internet connection from a satellite modem, Wi-Fi, or ethernet port. ATOM configurations can be customized to include or omit sensor types depending on the research goals of the study.

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Sensors installed on turbine platforms and buoys

Large-Scale Field Study

Willmott et al. (2023) deployed two ATOM systems on two turbines in the Dominion Energy Research lease area off the Virginia (US) coast. The systems were deployed from 1 April to 15 June 2021, 15 August to 31 October 2021, and 15 January to 15 March 2022 and recorded bird and bat activity.

...Read more

Willmott et al. (2023) deployed two ATOM systems on two turbines in the Dominion Energy Research lease area off the Virginia (US) coast. The systems were deployed from 1 April to 15 June 2021, 15 August to 31 October 2021, and 15 January to 15 March 2022 and recorded bird and bat activity.

Willmott et al. (2015) analysed data collected by the ATOM system over 16 months (December 2011 to March 2013) at two turbines: one in Delaware (US) and one off the coast of North Carolina (US). Thermographic, ultrasound acoustic, and audio acoustic data were collected and used to evaluate system performance.

Willmott and Forcey (2014) summarize and discuss the deployment and use of the ATOM system off the coast of North Carolina (US) in order to monitor bird activity offshore.

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Willmott et al. 2023, Willmott et al. 2015, Willmott and Forcey 2014
Monitoring

Offshore

Operation, Planning
Turbine Collision

Birds, Bats
Biodiversity Research Institute
Aerofauna Collision Avoidance Monitoring System (ACAMS)

The Aerofauna Collision Avoidance Monitoring System (ACAMS) aims to use two stereo-optic high definition cameras to determine the three dimensional coordinates of flying birds in the rotor swept area of a wind turbine. A near-infrared component is under development for nighttime usage....Read more

The Aerofauna Collision Avoidance Monitoring System (ACAMS) aims to use two stereo-optic high definition cameras to determine the three dimensional coordinates of flying birds in the rotor swept area of a wind turbine. A near-infrared component is under development for nighttime usage. The system consists of two visual cameras and two thermal cameras in addition to software which masks stationary image components with the goal of reducing data bandwidth.

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Cameras installed in the vicinity of a turbine or mounted on the nacelle

Small-Scale Field Study

Adams et al. (2017) installed ACAMS at two turbines in Maine (US) between September and December 2015 as part of a 7 phase research initiative to improve the 3-D tracking capacity of the technology.

Adams et al. 2017
Monitoring

Offshore

Construction, Operation
Noise, Electromagnetic Fields

Marine Mammals, Fish
SubSeaSail (SSS)
ASGUARD™ (Advanced Sea Going & Underwater Autonomous Research Device)

ASGUARD™ is a variant of HORUS™ that is able to listen/monitor above and below water to 30 meters. Future development aims to to expand these monitoring capabilities down to 100 meters....Read more

ASGUARD™ is a variant of HORUS™ that is able to listen/monitor above and below water to 30 meters. Future development aims to to expand these monitoring capabilities down to 100 meters. ASGUARD™ will be equipped with a Passive Acoustic Monitoring array and an EMF sensor package that work with the Digital Acquisition unit (DAQ) to allow on-board acoustic beamforming, processing, and classifying, and a communications system that will allow near-real-time, exception-based reporting.

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Free moving USV

No available documents.
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Operation, Construction
Cumulative Effects, Displacement, Habitat Alteration

Marine Mammals, Fish, Marine Reptiles, Ecosystem Processes, Habitat, Hydrodynamics
University of New Hampshire
Atlantic Deepwater Ecosystem Observatory Network

The Atlantic Deepwater Ecosystem Observatory Network (ADEON) is an observation network which aims to generate long-term measurements of natural and human factors active in the U.S. Mid- and South Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf to better understand the marine soundscape....Read more

The Atlantic Deepwater Ecosystem Observatory Network (ADEON) is an observation network which aims to generate long-term measurements of natural and human factors active in the U.S. Mid- and South Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf to better understand the marine soundscape. The network collects data with space-based remote sensing, hydrographic sensors, and mobile platforms which are then stored on a data management system and made available to the public.

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Data collected throughout the U.S. Mid- and South Atlantic Outer Continental Shelf using mobile platforms and remote sensing

Large-Scale Field Study

Popper et al. (2022) identified seven research priority areas relating to offshore wind development in the United States. ADEON is identified as an existing source of monitoring data to build upon.

...Read more

Popper et al. (2022) identified seven research priority areas relating to offshore wind development in the United States. ADEON is identified as an existing source of monitoring data to build upon.

Miksis-Olds et al. (2021) compared backscatter relating to fish and zooplankton observed from three nodes of ADEON which contain multi-frequency echosounder systems. Data from these sites was collected from November 2017 to December 2020 and analyzed for baseline ecosystem patterns.

Miksis-Olds et al. (2018) detail the deployment, calibration, and use recommendations for ADEON. Experimental procedures relating to mobile platform data collection are described as well.

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Popper et al. 2022, Miksis-Olds et al. 2021, Miksis-Olds et al. 2018
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based, Offshore

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds
ProTecBird
AVES (Avian VErification System)

AVES (Avian VErification System) is a camera-based bird detection system. The system filters characteristic features and movement patterns of at-risk bird species from one or more live video streams....Read more

AVES (Avian VErification System) is a camera-based bird detection system. The system filters characteristic features and movement patterns of at-risk bird species from one or more live video streams. Several cameras distributed across the wind farm allow the system to track flight direction and speed of birds approaching a particular wind turbine or the boundaries of the wind farm. If a bird species of interest exceeds a defined minimum distance, a signal is sent to the wind turbine which is switched to idle mode for a short period of time. The rotor speed is reduced to avoid a significant risk of bird strike. There are several types of AVES systems including AVES Onshore and AVES Offshore.

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The AVES system includes cameras placed around wind farm and AI-based tracking and identification software operated on computers

No available documents.
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Construction, Operation, Decommissioning
Vessel Collision

Marine Mammals, Fish
Charles River Analytics
Awarion Autonomous Lookout System

The Awarion® Autonomous Lookout System is an Al solution that works with human lookouts and marine radar systems to support marine conservation....Read more

The Awarion® Autonomous Lookout System is an Al solution that works with human lookouts and marine radar systems to support marine conservation. Awarion uses electro-optical and infrared video streams to detect, analyze, and report on the presence of whales, ships, and other objects, including fishing buoys and equipment. Awarion can detect whales several kilometers away—early enough so that vessels have a chance to slow down and change course.

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Mounted on ships

Pilot Field Study

Eaton et al. (2024) described the design of an artificial whale blow and the Awarion camera-based whale blow detection system, as well as initial results of testing the detector on the artificial blow....Read more

Eaton et al. (2024) described the design of an artificial whale blow and the Awarion camera-based whale blow detection system, as well as initial results of testing the detector on the artificial blow. The system was tested on Vineyard Wind 1, located 15 miles off the coast of Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts.

Read less
Eaton et al. 2024
Monitoring

Offshore, Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds, Bats
EMPEKO S.A.
B-finder

The B-finder system aims to detect fatal collisions between birds or bats and wind turbines. A B-finder system is composed of three layers of sensors (thermal cameras) and software which detects the fall of dead or injured animals and reports the location and time of the collision.

Computing unit inside the turbine tower, three levels of sensors. Sensors are composed of 4-12 thermal cameras placed at three levels on turbine tower. Video cameras, LiDAR sensors and a combination of sensor technology series are available.

Small-Scale Field Study

Lagerveld et al. (2020) evaluated various technologies developed to detect bird and bat collisions with wind turbines.

...Read more

Lagerveld et al. (2020) evaluated various technologies developed to detect bird and bat collisions with wind turbines.

Przybycin et al. (2019) evaluates the first prototypes of B-Finder. Freshly dead birds and plastic objects were dropped with drones or rockets. B-Finder achieved 95% efficiency at distances from 50-100m. Tests were conducted in western Poland from November 1027 - November 2019.

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Lagerveld et al. 2020, Przybycin et al. 2019
Mitigation, Monitoring

Land-based, Offshore

Operation
Turbine Collision

Bats
NRG Systems
Bat Deterrent System

NRG Systems' Bat Deterrent System is made up of multiple Bat Deterrent Units (BDU) that emit an ultrasonic acoustic field in the same range as bats’ natural calling frequencies. Each BDU is composed of six individual, solid state ‘speakers’ that create a ‘cone’ of ultrasonic noise....Read more

NRG Systems' Bat Deterrent System is made up of multiple Bat Deterrent Units (BDU) that emit an ultrasonic acoustic field in the same range as bats’ natural calling frequencies. Each BDU is composed of six individual, solid state ‘speakers’ that create a ‘cone’ of ultrasonic noise. To accomplish optimal coverage of the rotor swept zone, multiple BDU are mounted on the turbine nacelle and/or tower, projecting ultrasound outward.

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Mounted on the nacelle and/or tower

Large-Scale Field Study

Good et al. (2022) tested the effectiveness of curtailment combined with NRG Systems' Bat Deterrent System to reduce bat fatalities at the Pilot Hill Wind and Kelly Creek Wind Farms in Illinois (US) during fall migration (between 1 August and 15 October in 2018).

...Read more

Good et al. (2022) tested the effectiveness of curtailment combined with NRG Systems' Bat Deterrent System to reduce bat fatalities at the Pilot Hill Wind and Kelly Creek Wind Farms in Illinois (US) during fall migration (between 1 August and 15 October in 2018).

Weaver et al. (2020) quantified bat fatalities at the Los Vientos III, IV, and V wind energy facilities in Texas (US) from 31 July through 30 October in 2017 and 2018, and assessed deterrent effectiveness using generalized linear mixed models.

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Good et al. 2022, Weaver et al. 2020
Monitoring

Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Bats
EcoObs GmbH
Batcorder

The Batcorder aims to detect and record bat calls for bat monitoring and data collection. A microphone disk inserted directly into the turbine nacelle aims to collect bat call data and distinguish bat calls from other sound sources....Read more

The Batcorder aims to detect and record bat calls for bat monitoring and data collection. A microphone disk inserted directly into the turbine nacelle aims to collect bat call data and distinguish bat calls from other sound sources. If the Batcorder system detects a bat call, the system is designed to autonomously record it.

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Microphone mounted in the nacelle

No available documents.
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Operation
Habitat Alteration, Noise

Ecosystem Processes, Marine Mammals
Bedrock
Bedrock Ocean Exploration AUV

The Bedrock Ocean Exploration is an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) specifically designed for nearshore geophysical surveys....Read more

The Bedrock Ocean Exploration is an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) specifically designed for nearshore geophysical surveys. It features low-noise operation to minimize disturbance to marine mammals and utilizes a rechargeable battery, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional survey methods. It is designed for site exploration, site reconnaissance, export & inter-array cable installation, as well as operations and maintenance (O&M) surveys.

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Deployed in water around wind farm

No available documents.
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction
Noise

Marine Mammals, Fish, Marine Reptiles
Weyres Offshore
Big Bubble Curtain

The Weyres Big Bubble Curtain aims to reduce the noise produced by pile driving in offshore wind turbine installation. The bubble curtain consists of alternating layers of water collars with bubble emitters, composite sound absorption materials, and steel plating.

Bubble curtain applied around the monopile during pile driving and removed after turbine construction is complete.

Large-Scale Field Study

Bellman et al....Read more

Bellman et al. (2020) determined the noise reductions achieved by three commercially available pile driving noise mitigation methods through a cross-project analysis of 21 project reports produced by companies involved in offshore construction in the North Sea and Baltic Sea between 2012 and 2019.

Dähne et al. (2017) analysed the effects of construction of the DanTysk offshore wind farm (Germany) on harbour porpoises from February to December of 2013 through acoustic monitoring of pile driving noise and harbour porpoise echolocation. Noise reduction was studied for the application of two types of bubble curtains.

Read less
Bellmann et al. 2020, Dähne et al. 2017
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction, Operation
Habitat Alteration

Fish, Ecosystem Processes, Habitat, Invertebrates
Ecocean, Perpignan University
Biohut®

Biohuts aim to provide artificial habitat and support reef development on floating offshore wind turbines by acting as a shelter and nursery area. Biohuts are composed of recyclable and recycled steel cages placed in clusters and filled with rocks or oyster shells.

Cages placed in clusters on turbine foundation

Large-Scale Field Study

Mercader et al. (2019) conducted tank experiments using Biohuts as artificial habitat to observe the relationship between juvenile survival rate and artificial habitat.

...Read more

Mercader et al. (2019) conducted tank experiments using Biohuts as artificial habitat to observe the relationship between juvenile survival rate and artificial habitat.

Bouchoucha et al. (2016) observed the effects of Biohut implementation on Diplodis species in marinas on the French Mediterranean coast between April and August 2013 and 2014.

Mercader et al. (2017) evaluated the ecosystem effects of 107 Biohuts installed at a large commercial port in the Northern Mediterranean between June and September 2014.

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Mercader 2019, Bouchoucha 2016, Mercader et al. 2017
Mitigation

Land-based, Offshore

Operation
Turbine Collision

Bats
UMass Amherst, Texas A & M
Biomimetic Ultrasonic Whistle

The biomimetic ultrasonic whistle borrows elements of bat and toad larynx geometry in order to produce ultrasonic sound with the intent of deterring bats from the rotor swept zone of an operation turbine....Read more

The biomimetic ultrasonic whistle borrows elements of bat and toad larynx geometry in order to produce ultrasonic sound with the intent of deterring bats from the rotor swept zone of an operation turbine. The device produces ultrasonic sound passively using the wind flow over turbine blades in a range appropriate for bat deterrence.

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Whistles installed at multiple locations on turbine blades, potential for placement in vortex generators

Laboratory

Sievert et al. (2021) developed and tested the biomimetic whistle. The efficacy of the whistle was tested with Mexican free tailed bats and tri-colored bats in a laboratory setting.

Sievert et al. 2021
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based, Offshore

Operation, Planning
Turbine Collision

Birds
Bioseco
Bioseco

The system aims to monitor bird activity in real-time around wind turbines and reduce collisions risk with the use of smart deterrent system or turbine stop. The system is composed of independent detection and deterrence modules....Read more

The system aims to monitor bird activity in real-time around wind turbines and reduce collisions risk with the use of smart deterrent system or turbine stop. The system is composed of independent detection and deterrence modules. Through stereovision, the system is able to estimate the bird distance, altitude and flight trajectory. Furthermore, the system is able to classify birds size (smaller/larger) and activate the deterrence or turbine stopping on selected parameters of distance, size and altitude. Bird detection efficiency at higher distances is achieved by the use of 4K cameras and advanced optics

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Depending on the system version, between 6-8 detection modules are mounted on turbine towers and computing system with detection software installed inside the turbine tower or power substation

Large-Scale Field Study

Clausen et al. (2023) Bioseco demand-based wind turbine shutdown was tested as part of a pilot study on automatic bird detection during 2022 to field test at a land based wind windfarm in the district of Segeberg(Germany).

...Read more

Clausen et al. (2023) Bioseco demand-based wind turbine shutdown was tested as part of a pilot study on automatic bird detection during 2022 to field test at a land based wind windfarm in the district of Segeberg(Germany).

Gradolewski et al. (2021) developed and tested a detection and deterrence system which drew on technologies from previous works (strobing light, sound-based deterrence, artificial intelligence tracking). The system was tested in northern Poland on a land-based wind turbine between May and July of 2020. Validation tests with a fixed-wing drone equipped with GPS and verifying observations by ornithologists have been used to determine the detection efficiency

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Clausen et al. 2023, Gradolwski et al. 2021
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based

Operation, Planning
Turbine Collision

Birds
ZSW
BirdRecorder

BirdRecorder is a bird detection system which aims to use artificial intelligence to identify birds at risk of collision with wind turbine blades. The system consists of a wide angle high definition camera and artificial intelligence software.

Cameras placed in the vicinity of wind turbines

Small-Scale Field Study

Streiffeler & Bruns (2021) discussed the development of anti-collision systems which intend to reduce the frequency of bird collisions with wind turbines. BirdRecorder evaluation is ongoing at a wind farm in Schwäbische, Germany.

KNE (Kompetenzzentrum Naturschutz und Energiewende) 2021
Monitoring

Land-based, Offshore

Operation, Planning
Turbine Collision, Displacement

Birds, Bats
Swiss Birdradar Solution AG
BirdScan MR1

BirdScan MR1 is a pulsed, vertical-looking radar system designed for long-term monitoring of birds and bats in a localized area. The system is composed of a rotating horn antenna and a conventional ship radar receiver....Read more

BirdScan MR1 is a pulsed, vertical-looking radar system designed for long-term monitoring of birds and bats in a localized area. The system is composed of a rotating horn antenna and a conventional ship radar receiver. The system aims to detect bird height, wing flapping pattern, flight direction, and flight speed.

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Radar system in the vicinity of the wind turbine, consists of transmitter/receiver unit and computation unit.

Small-Scale Field Study

Nilsson et al. (2018) compared radar systems aimed at bird tracking in southern Sweden from September to November of 2015. Migration intensity, flight direction, and flight speed were evaluated.

...Read more

Nilsson et al. (2018) compared radar systems aimed at bird tracking in southern Sweden from September to November of 2015. Migration intensity, flight direction, and flight speed were evaluated.

Hill et al. (2014) reviewed the various bird detection technologies utilized for bird monitoring at the offshore wind farm alpha ventus in Germany.

Neumann et al. (2009) developed the a fixed pencil beam radar system in order to quantify the migration intensity of birds. The system was developed from ship and military radar systems modified to have greater range and distinguish between avian and non-avian echo signatures

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Nilsson et al. 2018, Hill et al. 2014, Neumann et al. 2009
Monitoring

Land-based, Offshore

Operation, Planning
Turbine Collision

Birds
Swiss Birdradar Solution AG
BirdScan MS1

The BirdRadar MS1 system aims to detect medium to large birds in the vicinity of a wind turbine to monitor bird activity and potentially prevent collisions. The system uses a fixed X-band radar with a detection range of up to 1500m depending on the target size....Read more

The BirdRadar MS1 system aims to detect medium to large birds in the vicinity of a wind turbine to monitor bird activity and potentially prevent collisions. The system uses a fixed X-band radar with a detection range of up to 1500m depending on the target size. Data collection includes Migration Traffic Rate and bird classification for large birds.

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Radar units placed throughout wind farm with nearby controller and communications units

Small-Scale Field Study

Zehtindjiev et al. (2019) discuss the findings of a year-long study (2018) of the Integrated System for Protection of Birds in Kaliakra, Bulgaria....Read more

Zehtindjiev et al. (2019) discuss the findings of a year-long study (2018) of the Integrated System for Protection of Birds in Kaliakra, Bulgaria. The study area included 114 wind turbines and bird activity was monitored using three different radar systems: Bird Scan MS1, Deltatrack Radar System, and Radar System Robin.

Michev et al. (2017) observed nocturnal bird migration and anthropogenic bird mortality in Northeast Bulgaria in September, 2014 using the MS1 BirdScan radar system.

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Zehtindjiev and Whitfield 2019, Michev et al. 2017
Monitoring

Offshore, Land-based

Operation, Planning
Turbine Collision, Displacement

Birds, Bats
STRIX Environment and Innovation
Birdtrack radar

The Birdtrack radar system aims to aid in mitigating bird-turbine collisions through selective curtailment and in bird migration monitoring. The system intends to classify and extract bird tracks using radar and software which identifies bird tracks from radar data.

Radar are placed in the vicinity of wind turbines, data is analysed with Birdtracker software

Large-Scale Field Study

Skov et al. (2009) evaluated bird migration levels at the Horns Rev II Offshore Wind Farm, the Horns Rev 1 Transformer Station, and Blåvands Huk from September to November of 2008 using four radar technologies. Birdtracker software was used for flight track identification....Read more

Skov et al. (2009) evaluated bird migration levels at the Horns Rev II Offshore Wind Farm, the Horns Rev 1 Transformer Station, and Blåvands Huk from September to November of 2008 using four radar technologies. Birdtracker software was used for flight track identification. Radar data and analysis was compared to visual observations made during the same period.

Read less
Skov et al. 2009
Monitoring

Offshore, Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds
Bürgerwindpark Hohenlohe GmbH
BirdVision

BirdVision is a camera system with accompanying machine learning software that aims to detect incoming birds and then stop the blades of the associated wind turbine before the bird enters the rotor swept area....Read more

BirdVision is a camera system with accompanying machine learning software that aims to detect incoming birds and then stop the blades of the associated wind turbine before the bird enters the rotor swept area. Artificial intelligence is used to identify birds and flight paths which may lead to a collision.

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Cameras mounted between 6-30m on base of turbine tower, image processing server inside tower

No available documents.
Monitoring

Offshore

Construction, Operation
Noise

Marine Mammals
Sea Mammal Research Unit (SMRU) Consulting
Coastal Acoustic Buoy for Offshore Wind (CABOW)

The Coastal Acoustic Buoy for Offshore Wind system intends to act as real time acoustic monitoring for the detection of whales during offshore wind turbine construction....Read more

The Coastal Acoustic Buoy for Offshore Wind system intends to act as real time acoustic monitoring for the detection of whales during offshore wind turbine construction. The system consists of microphones fixed to the seabed in addition to a base station which processes audio data using open source software

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Microphones fixed to the seabed and surface buoys connected to a central anchor platform.

Small-Scale Field Study

Palmer et al. (2021) undertook field testing and modeling for the Coastal Acoustic Buoy for Offshore Wind by using recorded right whale sounds and simulations to compare the efficacy of the COBOW system to single sensor and observation monitoring.

Palmer et al. 2021
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction, Operation
Habitat Alteration

Fish, Ecosystem Processes, Habitat
Witteven + Bos
Cod hotel (Cotel)

A Cod Hotel is a cage-like structure attached to the foundation (typically jacket foundations) of an offshore wind turbine which intends to increase Atlantic cod biomass in an ecosystem by providing shelter and foraging area....Read more

A Cod Hotel is a cage-like structure attached to the foundation (typically jacket foundations) of an offshore wind turbine which intends to increase Atlantic cod biomass in an ecosystem by providing shelter and foraging area. The Cod Hotel consists of a steel gabion basket containing perforated tubes and monitoring funnels.

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Cod hotels fixed to offshore wind turbine foundation

Small-Scale Field Study

Hermans et al. (2020) reviewed add-on designs for ecosystem support in offshore wind development. The report provides design drawings for the Cod Hotel.

...Read more

Hermans et al. (2020) reviewed add-on designs for ecosystem support in offshore wind development. The report provides design drawings for the Cod Hotel.

Degraer et al. (2020) discuss the effects of offshore wind farms on fish populations, particularly as they relate to the introduction of an artificial reef structure (turbine foundation).

Read less
Hermans et al. 2020, Degraer et al. 2020
Monitoring

Offshore

Construction, Operation, Planning
Noise, Avoidance, Cumulative Effects, Displacement

Marine Mammals
Chelonia Limited
CPOD / FPOD

CPODs and FPODs are automated passive acoustic monitoring instruments which aim to detect cetaceans by identifying the echo-locating click trains they produce. The instruments consist of a hydrophone, and ADC sampler (running at 1 million samples per second), and a real-time signal processor....Read more

CPODs and FPODs are automated passive acoustic monitoring instruments which aim to detect cetaceans by identifying the echo-locating click trains they produce. The instruments consist of a hydrophone, and ADC sampler (running at 1 million samples per second), and a real-time signal processor. The C-POD has been replaced by the more advanced F-POD

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CPODs and FPODs are anchored to the seafloor or surface and dispersed throughout wind farm (range: 400 m - 1500 m depending on species). Data is stored on an SD card and is processed ashore with automated analysis software.

Large-Scale Field Study

Benhemma-Le Gall et al. (2021) observed the effects of construction on harbor porpoise occurrence at two offshore wind farms in Scotland throughout 2017 to 2019 ....Read more

Benhemma-Le Gall et al. (2021) observed the effects of construction on harbor porpoise occurrence at two offshore wind farms in Scotland throughout 2017 to 2019 . Harbor porpoise activity was monitored using passive acoustic monitoring (C-PODs) and calibrated noise recorders (SoundTraps and SM2Ms).

Jacobson et al. (2017) estimated the effective harbor porpoise detection area of C-POD passive acoustic monitoring sensors. Population estimates from passive acoustic sensor detection were compared against estimations made with visual observations and a Bayesian model.

Redden et al. (2015) evaluated the performance of different hydrophone technologies by surveying marine mammals in Nova Scotia, Canada from December 2013 to June 2014.

Read less
Benhemma-Le Gall et al. 2021, Jacobson et al. 2017, Redden and Porskamp 2015
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Construction, Operation, Decommissioning
Noise, Habitat Alteration, Displacement

Marine Mammals, Fish
Open Ocean Robotics
Data Xplorer

Data Xplorer is a 11.66 ft solar powered unmanned USV. It is equipped with a 360° camera feed, satellite/cellular/radio communications, real-time encrypted data transmission, and can be autonomous or remotely operated.

Free moving solar powered USV

Laboratory

Data Xplorer was one of the marine mammal monitoring technology tested by Greentown Labs and Vineyard Wind during the Offshore Wind Challenge. Over the course of 6 months Open Ocean Robotics ran six ocean trials, totaling 10 days on the water.

No available documents.
Mitigation

Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Bats
USGS
Dim UV Light

Dim, flickering UV light was tested as a method of deterring bats from wind turbines. UV light arrays were mounted on turbines and thermal imaging was used to detect night flying animals.

UV light array mounted on turbine tower

Small-Scale Field Study

Cryan et al. (2021) applied UV light arrays to a wind turbine in Boulder, Colorado (US) between August 2018 and October 2019 and observed night flying animal behavior using thermal imagery.

...Read more

Cryan et al. (2021) applied UV light arrays to a wind turbine in Boulder, Colorado (US) between August 2018 and October 2019 and observed night flying animal behavior using thermal imagery.

Gorresen et al. (2015) illuminated trees with UV in the habitat area of the Hawaiian hoary bat in Hawaii (US) between September of 2009 and October of 2010 in order to observe the effect of the light on bat behavior.

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Cryan et al. 2021, Gorresen et al. 2015
Monitoring

Offshore

Construction, Operation, Decommissioning
Noise

Marine Mammals
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
DTAG

DTAG monitors the behavior of marine mammals, and their response to sound throughout the dive cycle. The tag contains a large array of solid-state memory and records continuously from a built-in hydrophone and suite of sensors....Read more

DTAG monitors the behavior of marine mammals, and their response to sound throughout the dive cycle. The tag contains a large array of solid-state memory and records continuously from a built-in hydrophone and suite of sensors. The sensors sample the orientation of the animal in three dimensions with sufficient speed and resolution to capture individual fluke strokes. Audio and sensor recording is synchronous so the relative timing of sounds and motion can be determined precisely.

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Attaches directly to whales with 4 silicone suction cups. Tags programmed to release at end of programming time and have an embedded VHF beacon to aid in recovery.

Small-Scale Field Study

Johnson and Tyack (2003) described the development, usage, and deployment of DTAG. They further detail specific examples from several deployments on sperm whales and northern right whales.

Johnson and Tyack 2003
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based, Offshore

Operation
Turbine Collision

Bats
DTBird
DTBat

The DTBat system aims to detect bats in real time and automatically stop and restart turbine operations in response to bat activity and/or environmental conditions. Triggers are adjustable to target species. Automatic species ID available.

Waterproof microphones are mounted on turbine tower, transition piece and/or nacelle for Land-based and Offshore projects. Ultrasound detector is located inside the main cabinet at WTG ground floor.

Large-Scale Field Study

Salkanovic et al. (2020) discusses how artificial intelligence can be used with monitoring technology to reduce wildlife collisions at wind farms in California and Denmark.

...Read more

Salkanovic et al. (2020) discusses how artificial intelligence can be used with monitoring technology to reduce wildlife collisions at wind farms in California and Denmark.

Hanagasioglu et al. (2015) data collected using the DTBird and DTBat systems at the Calandawind wind turbine in Switzerland between June 2014 and October 2014. Data collected were compared to data collected by bird and bat specialists.

Flowers (2015) investigated how different technologies including DTbat can integrated into a multi-sensor system to detect avian and bat collisions with turbines through field testing in New Mexico in December of 2013 ( North American Wind Research and Training Center) and in Colorado in October of 2014 (National Renewable Energy Laboratory Wind Technology Center).

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Hanagasioglu et al. 2015, Salkanovic et al. 2020, Flowers 2015
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based, Offshore

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds
DTBird
DTBird

The DTBird system aims to automatically detect birds and deter them from flying into the rotor-swept zone of an operational wind turbine. It is comprised of multiple components (high-definition or thermal imaging cameras and speakers), and is mounted on the turbine tower....Read more

The DTBird system aims to automatically detect birds and deter them from flying into the rotor-swept zone of an operational wind turbine. It is comprised of multiple components (high-definition or thermal imaging cameras and speakers), and is mounted on the turbine tower. Upon detection, the system emits discouraging sounds and/or stops the turbine. Collisions and potential collisions can be recorded. Species/group identification is done manually.

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Cameras for day and night monitoring can be installed on the tower of the wind turbines or in the transition piece for Offshore projects. When Collision Avoidance module is contracted speakers are placed on the wind turbine tower and/or on the nacelle. Stop Control module is a software configuration which doesn't require additional external hardware.

Large-Scale Field Study

Nicholls, A.; Barker, M.; Armitage, M.; Votier, S. (2022). Review of seabird monitoring technologies for offshore wind farms. Report by RPS group. Report for Offshore Renewables Joint Industry Programme (ORJIP).

...Read more

Nicholls, A.; Barker, M.; Armitage, M.; Votier, S. (2022). Review of seabird monitoring technologies for offshore wind farms. Report by RPS group. Report for Offshore Renewables Joint Industry Programme (ORJIP).

Terrill et al. (2018) used fixed-wing UAVs to evaluate the performance of the DTBird detection and deterrent-triggering systems at the Manzana Wind Power Project located in Kern County, California (US) between December 2016 and August 2017.

Litsgård et al. (2016) monitored bird movement to evaluate the effectiveness of the DTBird system on a wind turbine near Lundsbrunn, Sweden from July to September 2015.

Hanagasioglu et al. (2015) data collected using the DTBird and DTBat systems at the Calandawind wind turbine in Switzerland between June 2014 and October 2014. Data collected were compared to data collected by bird and bat specialists.

May et al. (2012) evaluated the capability of the DTBird system in detecting birds near the rotor swept area of a wind turbine and in studying the flight patterns of birds close to turbines in Norway. Data were collected with the DTBird system between March and September of 2012 at the Smøla wind-power plant in Norway.

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Nicholls et al. 2022, Terrill et al. 2018, Litsgård et al. 2016, Hanagasioglu et al. 2015, May et al. 2012
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds
Laufer Wind
Eagle Take Minimization System

The Eagle Take Minimization System aims to detect eagles at risk of flying into the rotor-swept zone of an operational wind turbine at a far enough distance to stop the relevant turbines before collision....Read more

The Eagle Take Minimization System aims to detect eagles at risk of flying into the rotor-swept zone of an operational wind turbine at a far enough distance to stop the relevant turbines before collision. The system consists of X-band radar, PZT visible cameras and a Central Controller computer.

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Cameras and radars placed throughout wind farm with overlapping fields of view.

Laboratory

Petr et al. (2018) discussed the development of the Eagle Take Minimization System. Prototype testing was conducted in Bedford, New Hampshire (US) using drones to simulate golden eagle flight.

Petr et al. 2018
Monitoring, Mitigation

Land-based, Offshore

Operation
Turbine Collision

Bats
Natural Power
EchoSense

EchoSense technology aims to use SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) data, meteorological data, and acoustic data to curtail wind turbines when bats are present within the swept area of the turbine blades....Read more

EchoSense technology aims to use SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) data, meteorological data, and acoustic data to curtail wind turbines when bats are present within the swept area of the turbine blades. Additional factors, such as wind speed and minimum temperature, can influence EchoSense automated curtailment decisions established by a predetermined set of rules. EchoSense was formerly known as Detection and Active Response Curtailment (DARC).

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Mounted on the nacelle

Large-Scale Field Study

Alliant Energy (2024) In 2020 and 2021 from August to October a study was performed at nine wind project sites in Minnesota and Iowa to evaluate the effectiveness of the EchoSense system in reducing bat fatalities in order for future wind farms to receive permits.

...Read more

Alliant Energy (2024) In 2020 and 2021 from August to October a study was performed at nine wind project sites in Minnesota and Iowa to evaluate the effectiveness of the EchoSense system in reducing bat fatalities in order for future wind farms to receive permits.

Vallejo et al. (2023) The effectiveness of Echosense was studied at the English Farms Wind Project, located southeast of Montezuma, Iowa between 2020 and 2021. This study tested the system's ability to detect bats and curtail turbine activity accordingly.

Fritchman et al. (2022) EchoSense was used as part of a curtailment research study at the Crescent Wind Project in Hillsdale County, Michigan from May to October of 2021. The study aimed to compare the impact of different curtailment methods, such as blanket curtailment and smart curtailment, on bat mortality.

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Alliant Energy 2024, Vallejo et al. 2023, Fritchman et al. 2022
Monitoring

Land-based

Planning, Operation
Attraction, Avoidance, Displacement, Turbine Collision

Birds, Bats
EchoTrack Technology
EchoTrack

The EchoTrack Radar–Acoustic Surveillance System is used for observing and conserving airborne wildlife populations. EchoTrack integrates radar and acoustic technologies with a unique algorithm in order to identity animals and isolate flight paths.

Free standing mobile field labs

Large-Scale Field Study

Corbeau et al. (2021) assessed the use of EchoTrack for tracking bird activity at Land-based wind farms in France.

Becker et al. (2019) used EchoTrack to observe bird activity at a proposed wind farm on the Cape west coast of South African.

...Read more

Corbeau et al. (2021) assessed the use of EchoTrack for tracking bird activity at Land-based wind farms in France.

Becker et al. (2019) used EchoTrack to observe bird activity at a proposed wind farm on the Cape west coast of South African.

Jenkins et al. (2018) utilized EchoTrack radar and software to observe great white pelican activity at a proposed wind facility on the Cape west coast of South Africa.

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Corbeau et al. 2021, Becker et al. 2020, Jenkins et al. 2018
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction, Operation
Habitat Alteration

Fish, Ecosystem Processes, Habitat, Invertebrates
ECOncrete
ECOncrete ECO Mats®

ECO Mats aim to reduce the habitat impacts of underwater cables (like those used in offshore wind operations) by facilitating biogenic buildup on mats of interlocking ECOncrete material covering such cables....Read more

ECO Mats aim to reduce the habitat impacts of underwater cables (like those used in offshore wind operations) by facilitating biogenic buildup on mats of interlocking ECOncrete material covering such cables. The concrete mix design consists of ECOncrete® Admix coupled with complex surface textures with the goal of encouraging colonization and attachment by marine epifauna.

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The ECOncrete ACBMs can be used in place of traditional ACBMs, which are typically placed on top of underwater cables or in areas where scour protection is required

Small-Scale Field Study

Sella et al. (2021) evaluated the structural and biological efficacy of the ECO Mat over two years from April 2017 to April 2019 in Florida (US).

...Read more

Sella et al. (2021) evaluated the structural and biological efficacy of the ECO Mat over two years from April 2017 to April 2019 in Florida (US).

Cinti (2021) compared the fish assemblage change associated with the placement of ECO Mat material and control material in Port Everglades, Florida (US).

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Sella et al. 2021, Cinti 2020
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction, Operation
Habitat Alteration

Habitat
ECOncrete
ECOncrete Wind Turbine Scour Protection Unit

ECOncrete® Wind Turbine Scour Protection Units are structural, interlocking, ecological concrete units gravity fed from a barge which intend to replace/complement rock armor scour protection around the base of offshore wind turbines....Read more

ECOncrete® Wind Turbine Scour Protection Units are structural, interlocking, ecological concrete units gravity fed from a barge which intend to replace/complement rock armor scour protection around the base of offshore wind turbines. The ecological design of the units and interstitial spaces between them aims to create an environment that mimics optimal marine habitats, while providing the structural functionality required of armoring for scour protection.

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Placed around the base of offshore wind turbines

Small-Scale Field Study

These units are still in development and will be piloted for Northeast offshore infrastructure in spring 2022.

No available documents.
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction
Noise

Marine Mammals, Fish, Marine Reptiles
Electronic and Geophysical Services
EGS Bubble Curtain

The EGS Bubble Curtain aims to reduce the propagation of sound waves during pile driving activities. The bubble curtain consists of a hose with 3 mm holes every 0.3-0.4 m anchored to the sea bottom around the pile-driving operation....Read more

The EGS Bubble Curtain aims to reduce the propagation of sound waves during pile driving activities. The bubble curtain consists of a hose with 3 mm holes every 0.3-0.4 m anchored to the sea bottom around the pile-driving operation. Bubbles produced disrupt the propagation of sound from the construction activities.

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Hose anchored to the sea bottom in a circle surrounding the monopile during pile driving

Large-Scale Field Study

Nehls et al. (2007) compared the costs and efficacy of three methods of noise reduction in pile driving: bubble curtains, modifications to the pile hammer, and pile sleeves. Bubble curtain technologies compared design, diameter, air supply, water depth, and noise reduction....Read more

Nehls et al. (2007) compared the costs and efficacy of three methods of noise reduction in pile driving: bubble curtains, modifications to the pile hammer, and pile sleeves. Bubble curtain technologies compared design, diameter, air supply, water depth, and noise reduction. The EGS Bubble Curtain was larger than other bubble curtains, with comparable noise reduction.

Würsig et al. (2000) developed a 25m radius bubble curtain using hose with 3mm holes every 0.3-0.4m through which air was emitted at 20m^3/minute. The sound reduction produced was evaluated for curtain application around a pile driving operation in Hong Kong in April 1996. Noise reductions ranging from 5 to 20 dB were observed, with the greatest reductions in the 1 - 6 kHz frequency range.

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Nehls et al. 2007, Würsig et al. 2000
Monitoring

Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds, Bats
U.S. Geological Survey and partners
Evidence of Absence

Evidence of Absence is a software package that is used to address whether the number of fatalities (typically of a rare species or species of concern) at a wind power facility is below a given threshold and what search parameters are needed to give assurance that thresholds were not exceeded.

Software

Large-Scale Field Study

Dalthorp and Huso (2015) rigorously tested Evidence of Absence against several hypothetical scenarios. They examined the accuracy and precision of triggers and their sensitivity to input parameters.

Dalthorp and Huso 2015
Mitigation

Offshore

Construction
Noise

Marine Mammals, Fish, Marine Reptiles
Menck
Fire-Hose System

The Menck fire-hose system aims to reduce the noise generated by pile driving through use of a two-layer curtain made of inflated, vertically arranged fire-hoses. Sound attenuation occurs due to the physical disruption to sound wave propagation created by the oscillating bubbles.

Fire-hose system applied around the monopile during construction and removed after pile driving is complete. The system is inflated once applied to the monopile.

Large-Scale Field Study

Wilke et al. (2012) evaluated various techniques for the reduction of noise in offshore wind turbine pile driving in a field study in Lübeck Bay, Germany.

Wilke et al. 2012
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Construction
Attraction, Avoidance, Noise

Birds
Wedge Global
FLOating RAdar (FLORA)

The FLOating Radar (FLORA) is an industrial-scale prototype of a purpose-built, self-powered, oceanic multi-use platform (MUP) with bird detection capabilities....Read more

The FLOating Radar (FLORA) is an industrial-scale prototype of a purpose-built, self-powered, oceanic multi-use platform (MUP) with bird detection capabilities. Equipped with a novel sensor suite, FLORA will be deployable as a low environmental impact system for bird and biodiversity data acquisition which is critical to Marine Spatial Planning.

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Free-standing tower with an integrated wave energy converter, wind, and solar to power the device.

No available documents.
Monitoring

Offshore

Planning, Construction, Operation, Decommissioning
Turbine Collision, Attraction, Avoidance

Birds, Bats, Marine Mammals, Fish
Akrocean
Fly'rsea

Fly'rsea is a floating RaDAR system powered by clean energy (wave and solar) with 365/7 supervision at an Land-based control center. The system is designed for environmental assessment of a range of species and environmental parameters.

Independent buoys on offshore wind farms

Pilot Field Study

Northeastern University (2019) discusses Fly'rsea and the challenges with floating radars for offshore wind farms.

Northeastern University 2019
Monitoring

Land-based

Operation
Turbine Collision

Birds, Bats
U.S. Geological Survey and partners
GenEst

GenEst is a software package used to estimate the probability of detecting a bird or bat killed at a wind facility, and then to combine the probability of detection with the observed count of carcasses to ultimately estimate total mortality.

Software

Large-Scale Field Study

Rabie et al. (2021) compared the performance of GenEst to the Huso and Shoenfeld estimators by simulating mortality and search conditions that might occur in in the field and evaluating each estimator’s ability to accurately estimate a known carcass count.

Rabie et al. 2021