Near Phoenix, Arizona, a solar energy complex has become an unexpected refuge for burrowing owls, who have hatched and raised more than a dozen owlets inside artificial tunnels at a large-scale solar farm.
- More than a dozen burrowing owlets hatched on solar farm tunnels this summer.
- Solar developer and wildlife group collaborated to relocate owls at risk from housing developments.
- Ongoing monitoring shows juvenile owls learning natural hunting behaviors post-release.
What happened
Burrowing owls, small ground-dwelling raptors, have been facing habitat loss for decades due to expanding housing and farmland, leading to population declines in the U.S. In March, nine owl pairs and one single male were moved about 50 miles to Longroad Energy's Sun Streams solar complex near Phoenix, where artificial burrows were installed to encourage nesting.
This relocation was necessary because the birds' former burrows were threatened by new residential construction. During the breeding season, the solar farm provided a safe environment, artificial burrows, supplemental food, and modified lighting to support the owls. By late June, 36 chicks had hatched, and 29 juveniles successfully fledged and began hunting on their own by the end of August.
Why it feels good
The success of burrowing owls nesting on a solar farm offers a refreshing example of modern renewable energy development working hand in hand with wildlife conservation. Instead of pushing vulnerable species out, this initiative creates habitat that supports their reproduction and survival, demonstrating a promising harmony between clean energy and nature.
Moreover, the project relieves pressure on traditional relocation sites like farmland, which are also shrinking, while showing that with intentional planning, renewable energy landscapes can support biodiversity. It also addresses the urgent need to protect bird species threatened by climate change and habitat fragmentation.
What to enjoy or watch next
Researchers and conservationists are now studying ways to replicate these positive outcomes at other solar farms, guided by data like a 2025 Arizona State University study showing solar sites often overlap with burrowing owl habitats. The Renewable Energy Wildlife Institute is building tools to help solar developers choose locations that protect biodiversity.
Arizona is developing guidelines that could make wildlife-friendly solar projects a statewide standard. These efforts may inspire more collaborations, where renewable energy, conservation groups, and local communities work together to create sustainable landscapes that benefit people and wildlife alike.