RESEARCH

Pilot test to evaluate the effect of photovoltaic solar plants on nest predation

Nest predation is one of the main regulators of the survival and reproductive success of birds associated with open landscapes. These steppe species typically nest on the ground, so an increase in predation limits the viability of the populations. The infrastructure associated with photovoltaic plants, for example, perimeter fencing or solar panels, can have an effect on the behavior of predators and therefore on the reproductive success rates of steppe birds.

The Steppe Forward Chair is evaluating this possible effect, understudied until now, by placing artificial nests inside and around photovoltaic plants. Possible predators will be identified through camera traps and direct observations in the field.

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