Audubon believes that climate change will be the greatest threat to birds that we will see in our lifetimes. The science supporting this notion (much of it researched by Audubon) is conclusive that unless we do something we could see serious negative impacts on birds. For this reason, our organization strongly supports the development of renewable energy, such as wind power. That said, we do not believe that we have to choose between renewable energy development and wildlife protection. Audubon's stated policy on renewable energy development emphasizes that wind power facilities should be planned, sited, and operated in ways that minimize harm to birds and other wildlife, and we advocate that wildlife agencies should ensure strong enforcement of the laws that protect birds and other wildlife.

This position is at the heart of Audubon's opposition to the Department of Interior's creation of a rule making it possible for wind energy companies to acquire 30-year permits to kill and injure eagles. Audubon strongly supports properly sited wind energy, but this new Interior Department rule fails to provide the protection eagles need. That's why we've put all options on the table to oppose the rule. Audubon has posted a good FAQ on our position -- it's worth a read.