The assessment, conducted by the company, used a controlled field methodology to objectively measure maximum and effective detection distances for each model, providing wind farm operators and environmental managers with transparent, verifiable performance data.
The evaluation involved controlled flights with a 1.42-meter wingspan avian-mimic drone, which simulated a medium-sized bird of prey. Flights were performed under stable weather conditions, covering a wide range of distances, angles, and trajectories. The drone’s GPS positions were synchronized with high-definition camera recordings from the DTBird systems, allowing precise calculation of detection distances and probability curves.
Key findings include:
• Maximum detection distances up to 451 meters for certain models under optimal conditions.
• Consistently high detectability (>90%) at operationally relevant ranges, with differences in detection curves between wide-angle and narrow-angle configurations.
• Model-specific detection profiles to guide technology selection based on turbine location, target species, and environmental context.
"For years, the wind energy sector has sought independent, field-verified data on bird detection technologies," said a DTBird spokesperson. "This study provides the transparency our clients need to make informed decisions, while reaffirming DTBird’s commitment to bird protection for both onshore and offshore wind projects."
