Protecting the Lear's macaw at Canudos Wind Power Plant

Partner
BE - Bioinsight & Ecoa Ambiental
Location
Canudos, Bahia, Brazil
Timeframe
Construction phase - finished

Canudos Wind Farm in the Caatinga habitat, Brazil, during the construction phase.

What was done

To ensure coexistence between the Canudos Wind Power Plant and the conservation of the critically endangered endemic Lear’s macaw (Anodorhynchus leari), Voltalia engaged BE to conduct a comprehensive biodiversity risk assessment.

The project included continuous monitoring, modelling, mitigation planning, and structured stakeholder engagement to understand and manage collision risks.

Lear's macaw, an all-blue Brazilian parrot
Lear's macaw is found exclusively in the semi-arid, thorny scrubland of the Caatinga biome in northeastern Bahia. Also known as the indigo macaw, it is a rare, all-blue Brazilian parrot famous for its dramatic conservation comeback.

The challenge

Preventing collisions between an endangered macaw and wind turbines.

The main challenge was preventing potential collisions between Lear’s macaw and wind turbines, a critical concern given the species’ endangered status. Environmental agencies, prosecutors, and NGOs expressed significant concern, requiring robust, transparent, science-based solutions.

Methods used

From modelling to an anti-collision protocol.

Continuous monitoring

Of Lear’s macaw behaviour and habitat use.

Collision Risk Modelling

To predict collision probability and identify high-risk areas.

Population Viability Analysis

To assess long-term population impacts.

Integrated communication

A strategy to ensure transparency and institutional support.

The Lear's Macaw Anti-Collision Protocol

  1. 1 Automated shutdown system trained to detect individuals of the species
  2. 2 Sound alert to deter Lear's macaws
  3. 3 Turbine shutdown if collision risk persists
  4. + Passive mitigation: painting one turbine blade to increase visual contrast

Outcome

Collision risk reduced to nearly zero.

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