Wind Turbines Threaten Wisconsin Bat Population

State agency proposes permit to allow incidental bat deaths from wind farms

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is proposing to update an incidental take permit that would allow wind turbines across the state to incidentally kill rare cave bat species. This comes as wind energy continues to expand in the region, raising concerns about the impact on local bat populations.

Why it matters

Bats play a crucial role in Wisconsin's ecosystems, helping to control insect populations and pollinate plants. The potential loss of these rare bat species due to wind turbine collisions could have cascading effects on the state's natural habitats and biodiversity.

The details

The proposed permit would cover the incidental taking, or unintentional killing, of three state-endangered bat species: the northern long-eared bat, the little brown bat, and the tricolored bat. Wind turbines are a known threat to bats, who can be struck by the fast-moving blades or disoriented by the turbine's air pressure changes.

  • The Wisconsin DNR announced the proposed permit update on February 4, 2026.
  • The permit would cover incidental bat deaths occurring from wind turbines across Wisconsin.

The players

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

The state agency responsible for managing Wisconsin's natural resources, including wildlife populations.

Northern long-eared bat, little brown bat, tricolored bat

Three bat species found in Wisconsin that are considered endangered at the state level and would be covered under the proposed incidental take permit.

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What they’re saying

“Bats are a crucial part of Wisconsin's ecosystems, and we must find ways to protect them as renewable energy expands in the state.”

— Environmentalist (centralwinews.com)

What’s next

The Wisconsin DNR will accept public comments on the proposed permit update before making a final decision.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need to carefully balance the growth of renewable energy with the protection of vulnerable wildlife populations, as wind turbines can pose a significant threat to bat species in the region.