An unusual solution for turbine blades against bird deaths

Researchers from the University of Helsinki in Finland and the University of Exeter in the UK have reached remarkable results in a study conducted to reduce bird collisions caused by wind turbines. Scientists examined the effect of turbine blades painted with different colors and motifs on birds.

Blades with white, black, red-and-white stripes, and red-yellow-black patterns reminiscent of venomous coral snakes were compared. Bird reactions were observed in a laboratory environment using special screens and touch-sensitive systems. The findings revealed that the type of blade most avoided was the one with snake-like patterns and bright warning colors. In contrast, it was determined that the traditionally used white blades were the design that birds approached the most and carried the highest risk of collision.

Researchers state that evolutionary reflexes lie behind this behavior. In nature, many animals intuitively stay away from venomous species that have vivid colors or distinct warning patterns. By adapting the same approach to wind turbines, the goal is to protect birds.

While it is emphasized that the white-bladed turbines common worldwide are the riskiest option for bird safety, it is recalled that a related study previously conducted in Norway showed that painting just one of the turbine blades black could reduce bird collisions by 70 percent.

Although researchers note that this method will not completely eliminate all bird deaths, they point out that it can be implemented in a low-cost and practical manner. If the success of the method is confirmed through field trials to be conducted in different regions, it is thought that wind turbine design standards could change in the coming years.

At the same time, it is stated that such warning patterns could also be used on power transmission lines or glass-covered skyscraper surfaces to reduce bird collisions.