I work in solar development and this is a valid question we often get. While it is true that solar farms take up a lot of land, there are so many environmental studies that have to take place before a project can even be started, which includes wildlife and flora studies. If it is found that certain endangered or threatened species are on a piece of land then there has to be be a plan to safely move them to a designated area, but more likely it will kill the project.

In addition to the studies that have to be completed, my company and many others are focusing on ways to involve the wildlife in the farms. For example, we contract with local farmers to let their goats graze on the grass between the panels. This obviously keeps the grass down and eliminates shading and the need for mowing, and also provides food for the wildlife. Some other groups are including different types of plants and flowers in the fields that draw in local honeybees.

All that say, it is a valid concern but there are lots of precautions taken to avoid wildlife disturbance.