The impacts of Şile wind power plant on birds

The possible effects of the Istanbul Şile Wind Power Plant (WPP), consisting of 16 turbines, on the Bosphorus-Amanoslar migration route, one of the two main daytime raptor migration routes passing through Türkiye, on birds were investigated. The study covers the weekly field studies between 29 March 2020 and 1 January 2022, covering the construction (installation) phase and operation phase of the Şile WPP project. In the determination of bird species in the study area, direct observation methods were used by counting at the point, counting along the line, counting with light and counting dead birds. In addition, indirect observation methods were used by making use of signs and symptoms such as nest, feathers and hearing voices. During the operation phase of the WPP, the dog was used during the dead bird counts. As a result of field studies, 94 bird species belonging to 32 families were identified in the area. As a result of the dead bird counts, one sample of 4 different bird species was found. As the main negative effects of RES on birds; collision, disturbance, habitat loss and barrier effects came to the fore. By taking these observed effects into account in the measurement of RES efficiency, it will be possible to reduce the social cost of the RES and increase its positive effects.