Habitat Use of Large Birds

With regard to the assessment of habitat loss and collision risk of certain birds, we conduct habitat observations of birds. This is usually the matter for large birds which are particularly worthy of protection, i.e. species that have large-scale breeding-food space complexes such as various harriers, kites, eagles, storks, cranes, short-eared owl and curlew. This method is generally suitable for “conflict species” with regard to wind energy projects. Their breeding occurrences are located on or within a certain radius of the project area and require general protection distances of several thousand metres because of species protection laws even without prior on-site investigations. During the observation, the actual duration of the activity of the relevant species in the area (courtship, foraging, resting, flying, drawing, etc.) and spatial localization during a specified time period are logged and recorded in a map. Using a spotting scope with 30–60× magnification of predefined points (Vantage Point Watches) ensures the best possible overview of the field. The analysis provides important insights into the actual extent of spatial use by the affected species. The aspects of area size and habitat requirements, habitat features and kind of spatial use as well as possible expected interference and requirements according to species conservation laws are considered in an assessment.