Field notes of raptors in and around Mertule Mariam, Gojjam Province, northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

In recent years much emphasis has been given to the conservation of raptors especially as a result of widespread population declines reported both regionally and globally (e.g., Thiollay 2006a, b), resulting in the upgrading of the conservation status for several raptors, especially vultures (IUCN 2008). Raptors are perceived to be at a higher risk because of their typically low productivity rates (Bennett & Owens 1997). Loss of habitat and climate change (rise in temperatures at poles) could have some effect on the population sizes and population re-distribution of African and Eurasian Raptors. Habitat modification by man and resultant destruction of breeding sites remains one of the greatest threats for many raptor species.