Environment · 2026-10-27 · Morning briefing

US wind turbines killed 19 million bats over 40 years

Wind turbines in the US have killed an estimated 18.7 million bats between 1981 and 2024, according to a comprehensive analysis of 499 reports from wind farms across 48 states. The problem has accelerated with the expansion of wind power; annual fatalities have surpassed 1.5 million every year since 2021.

The study, which focused on ten species, found four were disproportionately affected. Hoary bats suffered the greatest losses with an estimated 6.7 million deaths. They were followed by eastern red bats (5.8 million), silver-haired bats (3.4 million), and big brown bats (1.5 million).

Researchers suggest that better site selection and turbine design could mitigate the impact. Operational changes also show promise: temporarily shutting down turbines during periods of high bat activity, particularly in low winds, can substantially reduce deaths with only a limited loss of electricity production.

Summary written by Cup of News with AI from the sources below. Check the originals for the full story.

Read the sources

• Wind turbines have killed 19 million bats in 40 years in the US
• Wind Turbines Are Becoming Safer For Birds: Here's How

More stories in this edition

1. Russian missiles strike Kyiv university and medical centres
2. Israelis vote in first election since October 7th attack
3. US, EU, and 30 nations warn of Sudan famine risk
4. Oil prices ease amid multi-nation diplomatic talks in Tehran
5. Anthropic IPO filing flags weapon risks and big science bets
6. Female share of civilian war deaths doubles, says UN
7. Johannesburg faces three-month wait for water crisis relief
8. Japanese firms partner on ammonia-fueled vessels
9. Jordan strikes Syria after church attack; Syria closes border

Read the whole edition