The recent research by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and BirdLife International, a global partnership of conservation organizations (NGOs), has brought to light the alarming fact that approximately 30% of the 557 global raptor species are in danger of extinction to varying extents.
Understanding Raptor Species
Raptors, often known as birds of prey, are carnivorous creatures that prey on mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, rodents, and other birds. Characteristically, raptors possess a hooked beak, taloned strong feet, keen eyesight, and a carnivorous diet. Some examples of raptors include owls, vultures, hawks, falcons, eagles, and ospreys.
The Importance of Raptors
Raptors hold substantial importance in the ecosystem, as they facilitate long-distance seed dispersal through preying on a wide range of vertebrates. This indirectly enhances seed production and pest control. Being top predators, these birds are an indicator species, giving insights into the impact of threats like habitat loss, pesticides, or climate change on the food chain.
Global Raptor Population
Globally, Indonesia tops the list in terms of raptor species diversity, followed closely by Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Threats Faced by Raptors
Several factors have contributed to the threat to raptor populations. The use of Diclofenac, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, has led to a steep decline in some vulture populations in Asian countries such as India. Along with this, deforestation has resulted in the rapid decrease of the Philippine eagles population, the largest eagles in the world. This species is now critically endangered as per the IUCN Red List. In Africa, rampant shooting and poisoning of vultures, primarily from consuming carcasses of livestock treated with Diclofenac, have resulted in an average population decline of 95% in rural areas over the past 30 years. Moreover, habitat loss and degradation have threatened species like the Annobon scops-owl, which is now critically endangered.
Conservation Efforts at Global and National Levels
To combat the grim situation, several conservation efforts are underway. At a global level, the Raptors MoU – Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia is a significant initiative. This agreement, developed under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) or Bonn Convention, offers a platform for the sustainable use and conservation of migratory animals and their habitats.
At a national level, India, as a signatory to the Raptors MoU, has rolled out the Vulture Action Plan 2020-25 for vulture conservation. Additionally, India is part of the SAVE (Saving Asia’s Vultures from Extinction) consortium. The Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre in Pinjore, Haryana is noteworthy, being globally recognized as the world’s largest facility within the Bir Shikargah Wildlife Sanctuary for Indian vulture species’ breeding and conservation.
