It seems to be a glaringly obvious concern – will the installation of additional wind farms in lowland agricultural areas in the UK cause birds to abandon the area? They are, after all, very noisy, large and full of movement. New research suggests that the answer to this all-important question is no.

A new scheme to put up additional wind turbines in agricultural areas to meet renewable energy targets seems to be safe. The Journal of Applied Ecology set about studying the impact that existing turbines had on wind farms in the Fens and discovered that approximately 3 000 birds from as many as 33 different species were living quite comfortably within 750 meters of the turbines at both of the farms under observation. Despite concerns that the 100-meter high turbines might disturb birds due to noise and the possibility of collision, it seems that the birds have adjusted to these turbines without so much as batting an eye-lid. They certainly seemed to have no impact on the distribution of a variety of birds, including skylarks, game birds, crows and seed-eaters. Pretty much the only birds that seemed to have been disturbed by the environmentally-friendly power source were common pheasants, which are not very manoeuvrable. In addition to this discovery, it was found that five red-listed species were living comfortably around the turbines, namely the tree sparrow, the corn bunting, the yellowhammer, the skylark and the common reed bunting.

According to Dr Mark Whittingham of Newcastle University, previous studies of this sort had focused mainly on geese, waders and birds of prey – species which are mainly found in coastal and upland areas. The new research shows that the wind tunnels are unlikely to have a very detrimental effect on farmland birds. This is good news for researchers since it likely means that the UK can not only meet renewable energy targets, but that schemes to boost the wildlife on farmlands in the area will not be at risk. While the research did not consider all the variables, it does seem that for the most part, the turbines just don’t really affect small farmland birds. In fact, they pose much more of a threat to bats, which often haemorrhage when they are exposed to the drop in pressure near the blades. This hopefully wont pose too much of a problem if wind farms are positioned in areas that are not too near to places with high concentrations of bats.

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1. Wind Power Threat to Birds
2. Cats are Number One Threat to Birds
3. The Effect of Urban Growth on Birds

Gilbert White is considered by many to be the father of ecology and field ornithology. Although his works were penned in the 1700′s, they remain vital reading for all ecologists. Indeed, Gilbert White has left an indelible mark on the world of natural sciences.

How is it that this humble man came to be such a great name in ecology?

Gilbert White is well-known for his exceptional skills of observation as well as his talent for writing. In 1768 he read a publication by Daines Barrington entitled “The Naturalist’s Journal”. This journal was particularly designed as a record book in which observations could be made regarding the various seasons and their effects on animal and plant life. Over time, White corresponded with Barrington, as well as renowned zoologist Thomas Pennant which lead and inspired White to begin writing his famous book “Natural History and Antiquities of Selborne”. This 20-year project contained Gilbert’s observations as he described in his letters to Pennant and Barrington. Whilst the content was always factual, by writing in an “informal letter form” White could include narrative and theories. “Natural History and Antiquities of Selbourne” has remained in print ever since it was first published.

Many of Gilbert White’s observations related to birds, hence his great regard amongst Ornithologists. He was a firm believer in observing birds in the field rather than the collection of specimens for study in a laboratory. By following that technique, White was able to dispel up a number of misunderstandings about birds. For example, White was able to identify the Wood Warbler, Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler as three separate bird species through their songs. This application of his observational techniques as part of ornithology introduced the discipline or distinguishing birds by means of their distinctive calls and not just physical appearance. As an ornithologist Gilbert White also discovered that birds make use of camouflage after he studied the coloration and pattern of plumage on stone curlews. White is also credited with marking out the lineage of the domestic pigeon back to the rock dove.

Gilbert White certainly left a fine example for all naturalists. His brilliant, accurate observations and systematic recordings have inspired many interested in natural sciences. White’s amazing contributions to ecology and the study of birds will continue to be praised for many years to come and used as pertinant bird education material.

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2. Ornithologist Pair Break Record
3. Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival