Using species distribution modelling to predict bat fatality risk at wind farms

(Uploaded by Plazi for the Bat Literature Project) Bats are often killed in large numbers at wind farms over a wide geographical range. We aimed to predict which areas conferred higher fatality risks to bats at wind farms. In an innovative approach, we combined species distribution modelling with mortality data and the ecological conditions at wind farms located in Portugal. We then generated predictive models to determine areas of probable mortality and which environmental factors were promoting it. Mortality data for four bat species, Hypsugo savii, Nyctalus leisleri, Pipistrellus kuhlii and Pipistrellus pipistrellus, were used. These experienced the highest levels of fatalities at wind farms in Portugal, comprising 290 of the 466 fatalities recorded from 2003 to 2011.