Alternative energy quest endangering birds

Steep drops in bird populations attributed to energy production, report says

WASHINGTON – As the Obama administration pursues more homegrown energy sources, a new government report faults energy production of all types

In almost every case, energy production is also playing a role.

“Energy development has significant negative effects on birds in North America,” the report concludes.

Birds can collide with wind turbines and oil and gas wells, and studies have shown that some species, such as Prairie-chickens and sage grouse, will avoid nesting near the structures.

Ponds created during the extraction of coalbed methane gas breed mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus, leading to more bird deaths. Transmission lines, roads to access energy fields and mountaintop removal to harvest coal can destroy and fragment birds’ living spaces.

MSNBC