Are wind turbines dangerous for birds?

Studies conducted in the United-States and in Europe show that communication towers, high voltage power lines, the windows of tall buildings and pesticides kill many more birds every year than do wind turbines. In the United-States, it is estimated that a turbine kills on average two birds per year, while European numbers are even more conservative.

Developers take bird migration corridors into account when preparing wind farm proposals. In the Massif du Sud project located in the Chaudière-Appalaches Region, the developer reconfigured the layout of turbines so as not to interfere with the habitat of Bicknell’s thrush. A task force has also been set up to study the effects of wind development on Quebec’s bird population and to recommend measures to preserve habitats and species. The public consultation process carried out by the Bureau des audiences publiques sur l’environnement (“BAPE”) also looks into the matter.