Wind power company builds artificial nests for endangered golden eagles in Halsua

A Swedish wind energy firm has constructed two artificial nests for golden eagles in Halsua, central Finland, as part of mitigation efforts for two upcoming wind farms in the area, reports Yle Keski-Pohjanmaa.

The nests, completed in January, aim to provide safe breeding sites for the endangered species, ensuring they remain distant from the 36 turbines planned for the Honkakangas and Kannisto wind farms. Construction of the farms is set for completion in 2025 and 2028, respectively.

Golden eagles in the region are highly sensitive to disturbances like wind farm development. With only around five breeding pairs in Central Ostrobothnia—producing just 4–6 chicks annually—the new nests address a critical need, according to local bird enthusiast Jukka Ylikarjula, who helped build them.

“Most golden eagle nests in the area are already artificial,” Ylikarjula said. “The birds will adopt new nests if they’re in quiet locations with good trees.”

The nests, made from natural materials to mimic real structures, join three existing artificial nests nearby. Their placement was carefully chosen to avoid proximity to the wind farms. Authorities will monitor usage and condition regularly.

Planning for the nests began in 2022, but permit processes delayed completion until 2024. The measures follow environmental impact assessments that identified risks to golden eagle territories, with mitigation proposed by regulatory authorities.

Golden eagles are a protected species in Finland, with around 100 breeding pairs nationwide producing roughly 150 chicks annually. Their nests are legally safeguarded, with exact locations known only to authorities.