Crossing boundaries to help birds of prey
News from the RSPB site
This week, delegates from 60 countries are meeting in Scotland to try to reach an agreement on the best way to protect birds of prey.
Among the most threatened groups of birds across Europe, Asia and Africa, research has shown that birds of prey are especially vulnerable during migration, and would benefit from increased protection while crossing international boundaries.
As top predators, birds of prey are sensitive indicators of the condition of the environments they pass through, such as changes in the global climate which can affect wildlife and people.
These extraordinary birds are also attractions for tourism ventures along their migratory routes.
Michael Russell, Minister for Environment for Scotland said: 'Scotland is home to the majority of raptors within the UK and I look forward to the development of a new international agreement aimed at conserving migratory birds of prey and owls in Africa and Eurasia.'
Lessons from the UK
Dr Mark Avery, the RSPB's director of conservation, said: 'The UK is a perfect venue to showcase the turbulent ups and downs of the conservation of birds of prey. There are many lessons that can be learned by looking at our history with these fabulous birds.
'Ninety years ago at least four species the white-tailed eagle, marsh harrier, goshawk and osprey were extinct as nesting birds in the UK, but due to efforts from conservationists the populations of all these species are soaring once more, thanks to a range of measures including reintroduction schemes, increased protection and improved habitat management.
'However, in the UK, illegal persecution of birds of prey remains a continual threat affecting the future of many species, such as the golden eagle and hen harrier.'
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