During the construction of a Solar Power Plant in Portugal, the presence of an ecological value not identified in earlier Environmental Impact Assessment studies was discovered – the Bonelli’s eagle (Aquila fasciata), suggesting the possibility of nesting nearby.
In a swift response, a targeted Action Plan was implemented by BE to mitigate potential disturbances from construction while accommodating the species’ presence. This included a high-frequency Monitoring Plan with weekly samplings focused on the Bonelli´s eagle.
Monitoring revealed incipient use of the future solar power plant areas by the eagles and frequent use of a more distant area, but no nesting was detected. However, the presence of the Bonelli’s eagle in the region led to the creation of a comprehensive Biodiversity Action Plan. This plan includes a range of measures, from soil restoration and pollinator support to the enhancement of natural habitats, especially those that benefit the eagle’s prey species.
The aim of this plan is to ensure that the solar power plants may contribute to a net gain in biodiversity, particularly by transforming a previously low-diversity area, dominated by eucalyptus plantations, into a more appealing habitat for the Bonelli’s eagle.
