Implications for mammal presence and diversity of solar panel fields in agricultural landscapes

While solar energy is vital for the energy transition, its impact on biodiversity is uncertain, especially for terrestrial mammals. Solar fields may threaten farmland species by reducing habitat quality, but can also enhance landscape heterogeneity, potentially benefiting species diversity. This study examined the effect of fields of ground-mounted solar photovoltaic panels on terrestrial mammals while accounting for the surrounding landscape composition and configuration. Using camera traps in 15 solar fields in the Netherlands, each with two grassland controls, we surveyed terrestrial mammal species in 2022 and 2024. The diversity, relative abundance, and daily activity patterns of the species were measured within solar fields, in intensively managed grasslands intended for dairy production, and in extensively managed meadows intended for nature conservation. Four of the seven species that were recorded more than 50 times over the study period showed a higher number of events in solar fields than in intensive controls. Species richness was comparable across plot types; however, species were less evenly distributed in the solar fields. European hares and European hedgehogs were recorded more frequently in solar fields throughout the year compared to the control grasslands, while European badgers, Red foxes and Roe deer were found the most in extensive controls. The daily activity patterns showed that Roe deer use solar fields during daily transit from nocturnal to daily habitats. This research underscores that solar fields in farmland can provide new habitats for European hare and European hedgehogs, and potentially serve as alternative or complementary habitats for Roe deer. Solar fields development should continue to implement measures to further improve their ecological impact and increase biodiversity. Maintaining diverse vegetation, well-developed hedgerows, and wildlife access to solar fields are essential. Considering broader ecological impacts, such as soil health and vegetation management, is crucial to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach to solar field development.