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Golden Eagles getting killed by wind turbines in Norcal...

Discussion in 'Environmental Discussion' started by burritos, Jun 6, 2011.

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  1. nerfer

    nerfer A young senior member

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    Just had to throw this in - my Prius under a modern windmill.
    [​IMG]
     
    #21 nerfer, Jun 9, 2011
  2. nerfer

    nerfer A young senior member

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    This windmill farm was started in the 70's.
    From http://wind-powerplant.blogspot.com/2010/08/altamont-pass-wind-farm.html:

    "Considered largely obsolete, these numerous small turbines are being gradually replaced with much larger and more cost-effective units. The small turbines are dangerous to various raptors that hunt California Ground Squirrels in the area. 1300 raptors are killed annually, among them 70 golden eagles, which are federally protected; in total, 4700 birds are killed annually."

    [​IMG]
     
    #22 nerfer, Jun 9, 2011
  3. hyo silver

    hyo silver Awaaaaay

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    How about fewer ground squirrels? There must be some endangered fox species looking for a nice place to live.
     
    #23 hyo silver, Jun 9, 2011
  4. tripp

    tripp Which it's a 'ybrid, ain't it?

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    As nerfers photo shows there are two issues with those old turbines (they're not mills, dammit!). First is the high RPMs due to the wee rotor blades. Second is the tower design. The towers actually provide excellent perching/roosting opportunities for the birds... in stark contrast to more modern designs. You can see this easily in the two photos.
     
    #24 tripp, Jun 9, 2011
  5. qbee42

    qbee42 My other car is a boat

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    How long did it take to recharge?

    Tom
     
    #25 qbee42, Jun 9, 2011
    1 person likes this.
  6. wjtracy

    wjtracy Senior Member

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    Excellent photo but you should have bought a bright white Prius.
     
    #26 wjtracy, Jun 11, 2011
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