In 2014, when ornithologists observing birds as part of post-construction monitoring found nests of the Montagu’s harrier on the wind farms, Polenergia launched an active protection program of this rare species from the Accipitridae family.
As part of the protection measures taken in 2019, the work system adopted for this area was maintained. Fences were put up around the nests to prevent agricultural vehicles from harming them during the harvest period and other agronomic processes. In addition, the birds were provided with protection against predators by spreading a certified fragrance repellent, completely safe for humans, animals and the environment. Observations have proven that young harriers from successive broods (in 2014-2019) left the nest safely.
| 2014 | 2015 | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | Total number of birds | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of offspring | 6 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 17 | 45 |
These practices are aimed at protecting Montagu’s harriers at an early stage of life to considerably increase the chances that the population of this species will grow. By taking these actions, Polenergia joined the efforts intended to ensure active protection of this bird in Poland, supported by the patronage of the Ministry of Climate and the General Directorate for Environmental Protection.
Leg-banded birds could be found in other countries. A bird from the 2014 brood built a nest in Germany, while the last-year nestling was located in the Czech Republic near Brno. Fencing off nests found in high cereals is the only chance to save the harriers. By such actions the Polenergia Group takes care for the biodiversity at its wind farm sites.
The company intends to extend the protection of the Montagu’s harrier to its other wind farms in operation, provided that ornithological monitoring is performed there and discovers any nests of this species. The aforementioned species does not come into conflict with operating turbines: ornithologists have never observed dead birds under them.
