Contrasting effects of wind farm disturbances on multi-dimensional competition and coexistence of sympatric mesocarnivores

Abstract

Wind power generation is expanding rapidly as a sustainable energy development solution to mitigate climate change. However, a significant knowledge gap remains regarding the impacts of wind farm (WF) development on wildlife, particularly how different species respond to the disturbance from WFs. To address this, we used camera-trapping surveys and fecal-DNA metabarcoding data collected from both WF and non-WF areas. We aimed to investigate the multi-dimensional effects of WF disturbances on the competition and coexistence between two key mesocarnivores, red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and Pallas's cats (Otocolobus manul) in the Hexi Corridor, Northwest China. Given their distinct ecological characteristics and responses to human disturbances, we hypothesized that WF disturbances would differentially affect both species across spatial, temporal and diet niche dimensions. As expected, WF disturbances diminished prey availability and increased trophic niche overlap. Temporal niches playing a crucial role in facilitating coexistence through Pallas's cats shifting their daily activity patterns to reduce overlap with human activity. Despite significant differences in habitat preferences, spatial niche overlap between the two species remained similar across WF and non-WF areas, likely due to prey availability and livestock distribution. Our results highlight the complex interplay of spatial, temporal, and trophic niche dimensions in mitigating competition and promoting coexistence among sympatric carnivore species. Our findings provide guidance for balancing renewable energy goals with biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the importance of habitat preservation, prey management, and WF placement strategies during WF development.