MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Mid-summer in Florida is a hard time for me to get anything done. It’s so hot and sultry you’d think it
would be easy to find time to sit inside and write this column-no one wants to be outdoors for long, so
that distraction is minimal! However, after 16 years here, I’ve learned that sweltering heat only makes
me lazy. So, here I sit, hours away from my deadline, writing my second President’s column for RRF.
My procrastination at this important task has nothing to do with a lack of things to say. Your Board of
Directors and Officers have been busy these past few months. We are in the midst of working through
our second e-mail agenda of 2002, and are plowing through some difficult issues. One in particular
merits your attention and feedback.

At the Board of Directors meeting in Winnipeg, it was pointed out that many of those elected to serve
RRF have difficulty obtaining institutional support to attend the Annual General Membership and Board
of Directors meetings. Although attendance at the annual conference is an enjoyable experience, for
some, most notably the Treasurer, Secretary, and Editor-in-Chief, it is also a lot of work. As an
organization, we are completely dependent on volunteers for these important tasks, and it seems almost
inhuman to ask these folks to pay travel, room, and board to attend the annual meeting where their
attendance benefits us all. Accordingly, at the request of the full Board, Directors Bob Rosenfield and
Phil Detrich prepared a draft policy for review by the Board of Directors relative to RRF’s provision of
financial support for travel under certain circumstances where attendance at these meetings is critical.
The draft policy, in a nutshell, would allow RRF to provide reimbursement of actual travel, lodging, and
banquet expenditures (up to a specified, pre-approved and budgeted amount) for the President, Presidenf
Elect, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Editor-in-Chief, Directors, or other representatives
specifically approved by the Board. The draft policy makes it clear that RRF reimbursement would be
provided only as a supplement to institutional support, which would remain the primary financial means
of attendance.

The Board of Directors is debating that proposal now via e-mail. There
the proposal, and the Directors and Officers are split fairly evenly into
the two camps. The first sees this as an essential change that will
remove a financial disincentive that currently prohibits some from being
able to serve RRF as an Officer, Director, or Editor. An argument in
favor of this view is that it is enough that someone is willing to donate
their time and talents to RRF; they shouldn’t also have to reach into
their pockets to pay for the opportunity. On the other side, there is the
equally compelling argument that the members of RRF should not have
to financially support their leaders' attendance at the annual meeting.

Service to RRF provides rewards in other areas, and those rewards
should be sufficient to offset any financial costs incurred.

All of your Directors and Officers are sensitive to how you perceive this

are two schools of thought on

WINGSPAN

issue. After all, it is members' dues that would cover these costs. If you feel strongly about this issue,
pro or con, I’d like to hear your thoughts between now and our annual meeting in New Orleans in late
September. We will be discussing this proposal there, and I will share the member input I receive with
the full Board of Directors at that time. This is one case where it is crucial that we hear from you so that
we can reach the best decision for RRF. Just send me your thoughts in an e-mail message at bmillsap @
nettallv.com .

At the same time we debate this issue, we are exploring ways of conducting RRF’s business in a more
cost-effective manner. One is e-mail. We’ve experimented this year with a formal approach for working
through issues by distributing periodic e-mail agendas, and conducting discussions and votes on timely
issues in that format. The results have been promising. The e-mail format also offers the prospect of
keeping you better informed about the activities of your Board of Directors, and this is an opportunity
we’ll likely take advantage of starting next year.

With that, I’ll close, and await your feedback on the travel reimbursement issue.

Best regards,

Brian

RRF SEEKS NEW SCIENTIFIC PROGRAM CHAIR
FOR NORTH AMERICAN ANNUAL MEETINGS

Responsibilities include:

® Prepare annual Call for Papers to be included in meeting circular.

• Coordinate with local committee concerning setup for paper sessions, ideas for
special sessions (e.g., symposia and casual video/slide sessions), and keynote
speakers.

8 Receive abstracts for all general oral and poster sessions, organize sessions, and
inform participants of acceptance, scheduling, and paper format.

• Coordinate with symposia chairs concerning scheduling, session management,
organization of information to be included in program document, and notification of
participants concerning scheduling.

• Prepare scheduling information and book of abstracts for inclusion in program
document prepared by local committee.

• Select, assign, and coordinate session chairs for all general, oral paper sessions.

• Oversee management of paper sessions at meeting.

® Provide electronic files of all meeting abstracts to site manager for display on RRF
web site.

Term is for three years beginning with the 2003 meeting in Fairbanks, Alaska. Responsibilities

will commence in early spring 2003 when preparation for producing the Call for Papers begins.

Interested parties should contact Jeff Smith (phone: 1-801-484-6758, e-mail: jsmith@hawkwatch.
QEg). ,

^^3 2

c

SEPTEMBER 2002

2002 RECIPIENT OF THE DEAN AMADON GRANT

"Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) Habitat on the North Coastal Region of California"

Timothy T. Weber, Humboldt State University

Northern Goshawks (Accipiter gentilis ) are large forest raptors that are distributed across North America
and extend south throughout montane forests in the western U. S. (Squires and Reynolds 1997). Their
nest sites are usually found in mature to old growth stands composed of larger trees, and they are
frequently associated with meadows, riparian habitats or other natural openings.

The status of the Northern Goshawk in the western U.S. is currently controversial. Several organizations
have petitioned to list the goshawk as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Some
scientists have agreed that goshawk populations and reproduction may be declining in western North
America, primarily due to overharvest of timber and human disturbance. However, other scientists and
the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have determined that there is insufficient evidence to indicate a range
contraction or a decline in numbers in western North America. There has never been a comprehensive
survey for Northern Goshawks on the north coast of California. In that area, reduction in the amount
of late successional forest, increased vegetation density in managed forest, and short harvest rotation
schedules have likely resulted in a reduction of local goshawk populations. A detailed analysis of
historic nest sites in the coastal belt of Northern California would provide insight into goshawk nest site
use and broaden the understanding of the goshawk's status and the effects of timber harvest on goshawk
populations.

Mr. Weber will survey historical goshawk nest sites on the north coast of California to determine
goshawk occupancy and to explore the possibility that isolated goshawk populations exist outside of
traditional habitat. A detailed analysis of historic sites at different scales will be used to find patterns,
if present, of several variables: tree species and size class, canopy closure, slope, aspect, distance to
water and to open areas, and contiguous patch size. His goal is to document goshawks' nest sites
selection; why are they breeding in greater numbers to the east of the coastal belt?

THE RAPTOR RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.

(FOUNDED 1966)

OFFICERS

PRESIDENT: Brian Millsap

SECRETARY: Judith Henckel

VICE-PRESIDENT: Keith Bildstein

TREASURER: James Fitzpatrick

DIRECTORS

INTERNATIONAL # 1 : Eduardo E. Inigo-Elias

AT LARGE #1: Jemima Parry- Jones

INTERNATIONAL #2: Ricardo Rodriques Estrella AT LARGE #2: Petra Bohall Wood

INTERNATIONAL #3: Beatriz Arroyo

AT LARGE #3: Michael W. Collopy

NORTH AMERICAN #1: Phillip Detrich

AT LARGE #4: Carol McIntyre

NORTH AMERICAN #2: Laurie Goodrich

AT LARGE #5: Robert Rosenfield

NORTH AMERICAN #3: Jeff P. Smith

AT LARGE #6: Ed Henckel

Wingspan is distributed twice a year to all RRF members. It is also available to non-members for a subscription rate of $10 per year.
The Journal of Raptor Research (ISSN 0892-1016) is published quarterly and available to individuals for $33 per year ($18 per year
for students) and to libraries and institutions for $50 per year from: Ornithological Societies of North America, P.O, Box 1897,
Lawrence, KS 66044 USA. Add $5 for destinations outside of the continental United States. Individual and student memberships
renewed before November 15 are $30 and $15, respectively. Persons interested in predatory birds are invited to join The Raptor
Research Foundation, Inc. Send requests for information concerning membership, subscriptions, special publications, or change of
address to: Ornithological Societies of North America, P.O. Box 1897, Lawrence, KS 66044 USA.

WINGSPAN

RAPTOR RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC
RESOLUTION

INADVERTENT POISONING OF ELEONORA’S FALCON

July 2002

WHEREAS the Eleonora's Falcon is a species protected under international wildlife treaties, being
listed in Annex II of the Bonn (CMS) and Bern Conventions, in Appendix II of CITES, and in Annex
I of the EU Birds Directive, is fully legally protected in all breeding range states, and classified as
"Rare" and SPEC 2 in Europe; and

WHEREAS the Eleonora's Falcon is a species of special conservation concern because its breeding
range (the center of which are the Aegean islands and Crete, which hold about 70% of the world
population) is almost exclusively limited to uninhabited islets of the Mediterranean, and because of
its relatively small population size (estimated at 6300 breeding pairs); and

WHEREAS the naturally low reproductive potential of the Eleonora's Falcon will make it difficult
for the population to recover from increases in mortality rates, particularly in the adult population;
and

WHEREAS insect prey, sometimes captured hundreds of kilometers away from breeding colonies,
are important to Eleonora's Falcons especially during June-August; and

WHEREAS farmers in Crete have been illegally using excessively high concentrations of Lannate
(active component Methomyl) to kill small birds and other wildlife considered as pests to protect
crops, unintentionally causing important mortality of Eleonora's Falcons; and

WHEREAS the observed decline (50% in three years) in the breeding population of the two
monitored colonies in the vicinity of Crete may result in the extinction of the colonies and the
extinction of the Cretan falcon population in a veiy short time (a scenario that may be similar in
many other un- surveyed colonies); and

WHEREAS the Raptor Research Foundation Inc. (RRF) is the world's largest organization for
research and conservation of birds of prey;

THEREFORE, the RRF SUPPORTS the actions so far undertaken by BirdLife International (the
world’s largest organization for bird conseivation) and HOS (BirdLife in Greece) and acknowledges
the willingness of the manufacturer of Lannate to work toward the understanding of the causes of
decline in the Eleonora's Falcon population and to identity possible solutions; and

the RRF URGES the manufacturer of Lannate, in collaboration with governmental agencies and non-
governmental organizations, to take immediate actions to reduce its improper use and its resultant
impact on protected wildlife; and

SEPTEMBER 2002

the RRF URGES the Greek government to support activities, by government agencies and non-
governmental organizations, focused on restoring the population of the Eleonora's Falcon to the 1997
level, and to improve the enforcement of the existing laws on pesticides; and

the RRF URGES the EU Commission to include in the authorization process, envisaged in the EU
Directive 9 1/4 14/EEC, provisions aimed at minimizing the risk of improper use of plant protection
products that may negatively affect threatened wildlife.

(Editor's note: CITES = Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna
and Flora ; CMS = Convention on Migratory Species; EEC = European Economic Community; EU
= European Union; HOS = Hellenic Ornithological Society; SPEC 2 = Species of European
Conservation Concern, Category 2)

RAPTOR RESEARCH FOUNDATION, INC.

DRAFT RESOLUTION DRAFT

The following resolution on lead poisoning in raptors has been submitted to the
Raptor Research Foundation Resolutions Committee by Haw f Watch International
for consideration by the RRF membership at the 2002 Annual General Meeting in
New Orleans, At the meeting , members will have the opportunity to discuss, propose
improvements to, and vote upon adoption of the resolution . In the meantime,
members who wish to comment can e-mail the Resolutions Committee Chair, Mike
McGrady at mikejmcgradv(a).aol. com .

' LEAD EXPOSURE TO RAPTORS FROM AMMUNITION AND TACKLE

WHEREAS lead is the primary material used in ammunition and weighted fishing tackle; and

WHEREAS the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has determined that lead exposure from
ammunition and tackle can be lethal for dozens of avian species, including Bald Eagles, Golden
Eagles, California Condors, Common Loons, and Trumpeter Swans; and

WHEREAS non-lethal lead exposure can increase susceptibility in wildlife to trauma, starvation, or
disease; and

WHEREAS the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 'banned the use of lead shot for waterfowl hunting
in 1991 to reduce lead poisoning of waterfowl and Bald Eagles; and

WHEREAS Maine, New Hampshire, and New York have banned the sale and/or use of certain sizes
of lead fishing sinkers to protect loons; and

WHEREAS toxic contamination from lead ammunition at some shooting ranges has resulted in
range closures to eliminate the possibility of those ranges being designated toxic waste sites; and

WINGSPAN

WHEREAS the U.S. Department of Defense, the largest single user of ammunition in the United
States, has recognized the toxic danger of lead ammunition and as a result has worked to develop
non-lead alternatives through the "Green Bullet Program"; and

WHEREAS non-toxic alternatives to lead ammunition exist which have ballistic and killing
characteristics similar to lead and are sometimes within the price range of lead; and

WHEREAS affordable suitable alternatives exist for lead fishing tackle; and

WHEREAS the threat of lead poisoning of birds (especially raptors) has been recognized in other
areas of the world and has resulted in bans on lead ammunition and tackle in Northern Japan, Great
Britain, and parts of Europe; and

WHEREAS HawkWatch International, through a lead reduction program, is committed to educating
hunters, shooters, and anglers about the dangers of lead to wildlife and encouraging them to use
suitable, non-toxic alternatives; encouraging manufactures to develop and market alternatives; and
creating a coalition of other concerned organizations to strengthen outreach efforts;

THEREFORE the RRF encourages programs aimed at reducing the threat of lead poisoning in
raptors and endorses the objectives of HawkWatch International's lead reduction effort.

2001 RRF AWARD RECIPIENTS
by Petra Bohall Wood

Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Award (Selection Committee; Clint W. Boal, Chair; Brent
Bibles; Joan Morrison) Recipient: Fernando Hiraldo. Thanks to outgoing Selection Committee
members David Andersen, Chair; Richard Knight; and Karen Steenhof.

William C. Anderson Memorial Award (Selection Committee: Laurie Goodrich & John
Smallwood, Co-chairs; Reviewers: Jim Bednarz, Jim Belthoff, James Duncan, Rick Gerhardt, Laurie
Goodrich, Pat Hall, Kurt Mazur, Joan Morrison) Recipients: First Place (plaque, $100, 1 -year RRF
membership, banquet ticket): Ryan Brady, Boise State University, "Effects of mammalian dung on
predation of Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) nests." Runners-up (1-year RRF membership,
banquet ticket): Travis Booms, Boise State University, "Greenland Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)
food habits documented by time-lapse video" and Marcel Gahbauer, McGill University, "Migration
patterns of Peregrine Falcons (Falco peregrinus) in eastern North America." Special Award: Reed
deMent, Cambridge Academy (12 years old, youngest presenter at an RRF meeting, results of a
school science project), "Capture success of American Kestrels (Falco sparverius ) during the non-
breeding season influenced by sex of bird in upstate South Carolina."

Dean Amadon Grant (Selection Committee: Carole Griffiths, Chair); Recipients: $200 each to
Stephanie Grossman, University of Alberta, "Responses of a forest raptor community to critical

SEPTEMBER 2002

habitat thresholds in central Alberta" and Denis Bogomolov, Moscow State Pedagogical University,
"The changes of ranges and habitats of Bright Harriers within European Russia in the Twentieth
Century."

Leslie Brown Memorial Grant (Selection Committee: Jeff Lincer, Chair; Gary Duke; Rich
Howard; Alan Kemp): Recipients: $1000 each to Maria Diekmann, Rare and Endangered Species
Trust, "Cape Griffon Vulture telemetry project" and Ngoni Chitemamuswe, Zimbabwe Department
of National Parks, "Motobo Hills Black Eagle monitoring and educational project."

THE FRAN AND FREDERICK HAMERSTROM AWARD

2001

by Clint W. Boal

The Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Award was established by the Raptor Research Foundation in
1991 to honor Dr s. Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom and recognize their contributions to our
understanding of raptor natural history and ecology through their long-term ecological studies. Up
to one Hamerstrom award is given annually to recognize an individual for significant research
contributions in raptor natural history and ecology.

The recipient of the 2001 Raptor Research Foundation’s Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Award is
Dr. Fernando Hiraldo. Over the last three decades, Dr. Hiraldo has engaged in research on numerous
species and ecosystems on three continents. Although he has not worked exclusively with birds of
prey, he has had a substantial impact in raptor ecology through his research, training of graduate
students, and involvement in the political arena. Largely due to Dr. Hiraldo’ s efforts, Spain is
currently a leader in the world of raptor research.

Dr. Hiraldo ’s cumulative impact on raptor ecology has also been felt through the training he has
provided to graduate students, having trained some of raptor biology’s finest ecologists today. Many
of his former students have gone on to initiate their own research programs in conservation of birds
of prey, and contribute significantly to the Raptor Research Foundation by organizing meetings and
serving on the Board of Directors.

Dr. Hiraldo ’s impact continues to grow with his current position as Director of the Donana
Biological Station. As director of the station, he has the great responsibility of protection and study
of the Donana National Park, an ecological treasure and world heritage site where seventy percent
of European bird species, many of them endangered raptors, are residents or move through on
migration.

Truly, Dr. Hiraldo has made, and continues to make significant contributions to the understanding
of raptor natural history and ecology. It is with great pleasure that the Raptor Research Foundation
presents the Fran and Frederick Hamerstrom Award to Dr. Fernando Hiraldo.

7-

. ■ : - V J

WINGSPAN

RESTORATION OF APLOMADO FALCONS EXPANDS TO WEST TEXAS
Sixteen Young Falcons Released on Private Ranches

The restoration of the Aplomado Falcon expanded into west Texas on July 2, 2002 when 16 falcon
chicks left The Peregrine Fund's World Center for Birds of Prey in Boise, Idaho and were flown to
Van Horn, Texas. "The habitat in south Texas is very close to reaching carrying capacity so the
expansion into west Texas is essential," stated J. Peter Jenny, Vice President of The Peregrine Fund,
"The habitat in west Texas is excellent for this species."

The Aplomado Falcon is the one remaining falcon on the U.S. endangered species list and a top
priority of The Peregrine Fund. It had been gone from the United States from the 1950s until 1995
when a pair of falcons raised and released by biologists from The Peregrine Fund nested. At the end
of 2001, 33 pairs were known to exist in the wild, all in south Texas. This success is due to the
reintroduction of captive raised Aplomado Falcons by The Peregrine Fund with the cooperation of
the private sector, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Texas Parks and Wildlife.

The release of Aplomado Falcons is being conducted under a "Safe Harbor" agreement. The
agreement is among landowners, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and The Peregrine Fund. The
agreement encourages private landowners to participate in the restoration of the Aplomado Falcon
by exempting additional provisions or liabilities applicable under the Endangered Species Act.
Property owners maintaining a baseline of Aplomado Falcons and agreeing to the release of
Aplomado Falcons would be free to use or develop other areas of their property, even if the use
results in "incidental take" of an Aplomado Falcon.

As of July 1, 2002, land owners in 42 west Texas counties are eligible to sign the Safe Harbor
Agreement. "The great thing about the Safe Harbor approach is that it can protect many landowners
in west Texas, whether they are falcon reintroduction partners or neighboring landowners," said Gary
Graham, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Wildlife Director, "Safe Harbor agreements have
worked well for landowners in the south Texas reintroduction project. Even with the release of
hundreds of falcons over the past several years there, I'm not aware of a single problem involving
private property owners. Now we have a chance to repeat that success in west Texas, helping both
falcons and landowners."

"As ranchers we are looking forward to having Aplomado Falcons back in west Texas," stated John
Means, on whose ranch 11 of the 16 falcon chicks were released, "Our partnership with The
Peregrine Fund will enable us to begin working toward the restoration of this beautiful falcon." The
Means family has been ranching in west Texas for five generations.

The restoration of the Aplomado Falcon is a cooperative project with support from Houston
Endowment, State of Texas, The Brown Foundation, Kleberg Foundation, ExxonMobil, Engelhard
Foundation, Burlington Resources, American Electric Power, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, The Tapeats Fund, Peter Toot, and several others. More
information on the project can be found on The Peregrine Fund’s web site (www.peregrinefund.

Ol-g).

SEPTEMBER 2002*

DEVELOPMENTS IN CONSERVATION OF THE S AKER FALCON

by Nick Fox

Since the Middle East Falcon Research Group conference in Ulan Baatar in 2000, the Environmental
Research and Wildlife Development Agency (ERWDA), United Arab Emirates (UAE), has
continued making surveys of Saker Falcons in Siberia, Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China. Although
there are still significant populations in parts of Siberia and in Mongolia, surveys in China so far
have proved disappointing. The Chinese previously estimated that they had a considerable reserve
of breeding Sakers, but surveys in Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia over the past two years have
revealed only scattered nests, with poor productivity. ERWDA has yet to survey the central plateau,
which is largely a Buddhist region and therefore holds more prospect of nests being undisturbed.
Generally speaking, most of the Sakers trapped in China in the autumn originate in Mongolia and
Siberia, rather than from China.

In Kazakhstan too, the population of western Sakers is very much reduced to pockets and isolated
pairs. To the south, in Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Kirghistan, trapping has been heavy and the
populations severely depleted. Modelling of global productivity of this species against existing
harvest rates forecasts a continuing decline. Data from members of the Middle East Falcon Research
Group indicate that Saudi Arabia imports about 4000 Sakers per year, Qatar about 1000, and
Bahrain, Kuwait and UAE about 500-1000 each. As the source countries only license export of a
few hundred Sakers in total, most of the 7000-8000 Sakers reaching Arabia must be illegal, as must
be all the Peregrines which are already Appendix 1 . Solutions are not easy. Uplisting the Saker to
CITES Appendix 1 might make the source countries treat falcon smugglers more seriously. On the
other hand it would take the Saker out of legal trade, thus creating a disincentive for the conservation
of wild Sakers and their habitats through sustainable use.

Following investigation by CITES of the trans-shipment of caviar through UAE, the UAE was
temporarily suspended from international trade. As part of the lifting of the suspension, ERWDA
has pioneered a system of falcon registration in the UAE, linked to an international passport system.
The UAE hopes that this will promote trade in captive-bred falcons and eliminate illegal imports of
wild-caught falcons. It will be a difficult period while UAE switches over almost entirely to captive-
bred falcons. Adjacent falconry countries depend heavily on illegal wild falcons and have far fewer
controls than the UAE. How to manage a transition. to captive-bred or sustainable harvest of wild
falcons will be a difficult task ahead of us. For the source countries too, there are difficulties in
establishing genuinely sustainable quotas and enforcing them. Corruption is widespread at all levels.
At a meeting in Ulan Baatar in August 2002, CITES will be calling for a meeting of all involved
parties in early 2003; ERWDA will be reporting on progress so far and on ways of reversing the
trend.

(Editor's note: Nick Fox is Director of Falcon Research and Management with the Environmental
Research and Wildlife Development Agency, United Arab Emirates.)

* WINGSPAN

CALL FOR ABSTRACTS FOR A VULTURE WORKSHOP
at the 6th World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls
Budapest, Hungary, May 18-23, 2003

Convenor: Munir Virani, The Peregrine Fund
Co-convenor: Mark Anderson, Vulture Study Group

Please send abstracts to WWGBP@aol.com and
Munir Virani ( munir; viran i@.bi gfoot.com l or Mark Anderson t manderson@grand.ncape.gov.za 1

Before submitting an abstract, please visit http://www.raptors-international.de
for an abstract submission form and other relevant information.

The recent decline in populations of Gyps vultures in south Asia has stimulated much interest and
discussion. Field research and diagnostic studies have been initiated in the Indian subcontinent by
various organizations and their partners, to understand the cause of gout-associated vulture mortalities
and help ensure that populations do not fall below sustainable levels. Identifying conservation priorities
and implementing management actions for species in jeopardy demand a thorough understanding of their
basic ecology and behaviour. Aspects of Asian Gyps vulture population densities, breeding success,
mortality factors, behaviour, and movements are poorly understood, and publications are few, perhaps
because the birds were so common in the past and therefore not considered a study priority.

In addition to The Peregrine Fund's Asian Vulture Crisis Project in Pakistan and Nepal, the Bombay
Natural History Society, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the Zoological Society of London,
and the National Birds of Prey Centre are conducting vulture surveys in India and are in the process of
constructing a vulture captive-care facility to understand the cause of the vulture decline. In April 2002,
the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Vulture Study Group met to discuss the Asian vulture crisis and its
implications for vultures in Africa. Monitoring vulture populations across sub-Saharan African countries
and collecting blood for haematology, biochemistry, and serology as baseline information were identified
as priority studies. Population monitoring, haematology, and biochemistry studies on Gyps vultures are
underway in Kenya, Botswana, and South Africa.

In view of international concern over Gyps vultures, we have been asked by the World Working Group
on Birds of Prey and Owls to convene a workshop at the 6th World Conference on Birds of Prey and
Owls. This workshop plans to gather a panel of international experts conducting research on Old World
vultures. The goal of the workshop will be to present the latest results of ongoing vulture field research
and conservation initiatives, and use this knowledge to understand vulture population trends and other
aspects of their biology, ecology, and health in south Asia. After the workshop, a round table discussion
will be held to identify and evaluate the conservation status of Old World vultures globally and to pool
ideas to develop a more effective recovery and conservation plan for Asian vultures in jeopardy.

We invite you to participate in the vulture workshop at Budapest. Unfortunately, funding is always
limited; we therefore urge participants/organizations to make every effort to attend this workshop so that
we can together contribute to resolving the vulture crisis in south Asia.

We look forward to hearing from you,

Munir Virani & Mark Anderson

3 IQ C, , ■ mi -V I

SEPTEMBER 2002

TRAINING WORKSHOP AT JAT AYU VULTURE CARE CENTRE

Pinjore, India

by Jemima Parry- Jones MBE

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), the
National Birds of Prey Centre (NBPC) and the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) are working
together in a linked project funded by a Grant from the Darwin Initiative from the British
Government since early in 2000. The objectives of the project are to try and identify the cause of
the dramatic decline of the Gyps vultures in the Indian subcontinent, see if it is possible to solve
whatever is causing the decline and possibly in the future set up a captive breeding programme
should it be needed.

Dr. Andrew Cunningham, pathologist at ZSL, and Jemima Parry-Jones, MBE Director of NBPC,
as a part of the Darwin Initiative project travelled to India at the end of May 2002. They travelled
via Delhi to Pinjore which is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. In a National Forest on a
piece of land kindly donated by the Haryana Wildlife Department (HWD) has been built a Vulture
Captive Care Centre. The enclosures there have been designed by NBPC, and a clinic has been built
to the design of Dr. Cunningham so that initial investigative work can be done with the sick and dead
vultures that will be housed there, both in terms of treatment and post mortem's. One of the main
problems in discovering any cause for the decline is that it has been almost impossible to get very
freshly dead vultures to be able to post mortem.

Among the four groups and with much work from Dr. Prakash from BNHS, plus invaluable
assistance from Mr. Jakati the Director and some of his wildlife staff from HWD, three large holding
aviaries have been built on land given to the project by HWD and four quarantine pens, with four
more quarantine pens to be added by the end of July 2002. The small clinic/laboratory has just about
been completed as well and only awaits a couple of deep freezes and a little more laboratory
equipment. The only thing that is holding things up now is a water supply which is in hand.

JPJ travelled out with AC to run a workshop on the captive husbandry, handling and management
of vultures. This was primarily to ensure that BNHS staff were competent and comfortable to look
after, catch up and handle vultures. Dr. Prakash had visited NBPC for three months last year,
training, but the staff on the ground needed training as well. Mr. Jakati and some wildlife
department staff also visited the Centre and discussed handling and management techniques for
possible assistance in the future. There is one vulture held at the Centre at this time and as this bird
needed a physical check up, the team learnt how to capture it quickly and with the least stress, and
how to handle and weigh the bird, At the same time three levels of cleaning pens were covered by
AC and JPJ, and a protocol established. This was written up later.

Vultures are particularly difficult birds to deal with, because of their habit of vomiting under stress,
and having to handle sick birds regularly is very stressful, so there is going to be a learning curve on
what works and what doesn't. There are India-wide surveys going on at the moment to assess the
current status of the vultures. These will hopefully be published very soon, as it is important that

WINGSPAN

they are.

Since their return from India the second four quarantine enclosures have been built, and it is planned
that a vet from the UK with training from both ZSL and NBPC will be able to go out to India for an
extended stay to work with the vultures that are going to be caught up for the Captive Care Centre.
This will make a huge difference to have that sort of expertise on site.

Funding is a vital part of any project so if anyone out there is interested in helping with any funding
please contact us. £8000 would build us offices and accommodation close to the site, £500 would
buy a deep freeze. £60 a month would feed our vet! If you are collecting funds for vultures, this
project is a good one to support.

GRIFFON VULTURE IS A SPECIES
Commentary

Until recently, everyone called the vultures in the genus Gyps 'Vultures,' and two names served to
distinguish the species, e.g., Cape Vulture, Himalayan Vulture, Griffon Vulture, and so on.

However, in recent times, some authorities have been using the names 'Griffon Vulture' or 'Griffon'
to refer to the larger vultures in the genus Gyps, but not to the smaller ones, which were still referred
to as - Vulture.' They contend that these larger species are more than "just" vultures, they are super-
vultures. These so-called Griffons are a special type of vulture with heavy bodies, cliff nesting,
colonial, thick neck, etc. Presumably, these authorities would recognize the genus Pseudogyps for
the smaller vultures. However, most taxonomic authorities do not recognize Pseudogyps.

Using 'Griffon' and 'Griffon Vulture' for vultures other than Gyps fulvus has caused confusion. Such
that nowadays one must use three names to be perfectly clear which species one is referring to,
especially for Gyps fulvus , referred to as Eurasian Griffon Vulture.

Perhaps if the larger, cliff-nesting vultures are very different from the smaller, tree nesting vultures,
which I doubt, then different common and generic names should be used for them. But the generic
name used for the larger vultures should not be one that has in the past referred to a single species.

We use the name 'Eagle' for many species that differ much more than these two groups of Gyps
vultures, including much more variation in size, for both tree and cliff nesting species, and in
different genera. For example, the difference between Verreaux’s Eagle and Lesser Spotted Eagle,
both in the genus Aquila and both called Eagle, are much greater than those between White-backed
and Cape Vultures. One nests on cliffs and the other in trees. Why then should we use two different
generic common names for vulture species in the same genus?

I recommend that all Gyps vultures be called 'Vulture' and that the name 'Griffon' be used only as the
traditional common name for Gyps fulvus.

William S. Clark

SEPTEMBER 2002

RECENT ACTIVITIES OF THE EAST EUROPEAN/MEDITERRANEAN
GRIFFON VULTURE WORKING GROUP

by R. Boegel Sc L. Slotta-Bachmayr

The East European/Mediterranean Griffon Vulture Working Group (EGVWG) was founded in
March 2000 at Salzburg, Austria to:

•' evaluate the status of the Eurasian Griffon Vulture Gyps fulvus ssp. in its eastern
European and Mediterranean range,

• establish a management concept (action plan) for the Eurasian Griffon Vulture in this
area,

• monitor the breeding and non-breeding parts of the population,

:• identify interactions between subpopulations, and

• facilitate communication and information exchange among EGVWG members.

The group's second annual meeting was hosted by the Nature Information Conservation Center
"Eastern Rhodopes" (NICCER) in Madjarovo, Bulgaria, from 20-22 October 2001. Welcome
addresses were presented by Svetlana Hristova (NICCER), Boris Barov (Bulgarian Society for the
Protection of Birds), Ljbomic Dainovski (representative of the Bulgarian ministry of environment),
Atanas Dimitrov (mayor of Madjarovo), and Ralf Boegel (EGVWG). Thirty-seven participants from
nine countries attended the meeting.

The scientific program consisted of presentations on status, research, and conservation-related topics:

Hristova, S. (NICCER): The status of Gyps fulvus in the Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria.

Stoynov, E. (Wild Flora Sc Fauna Fund [FWFF], Bulgaria): Reintroduction projects in SW
of Bulgaria and Eastern Stara Mountain in the frame of VULTURA program.

Lisitchanets T. Sc E. Stoynov (FWFF Macedonia/FWFF Bulgaria): Threats and the
conservation measures of the Griffon Vultures in Macedonia and planned activities for
2002 .

Ivanov, I. Sc S. Marin (Green Balkans): Green Balkans' activities for vulture conservation.

Stoynov, E. (FWFF Bulgaria): Planned reintroduction/restocking activities and an overview
on the situation of Griffon Vultures in Macedonia.

Vaassen, E. (Raptor Research Sc Rehabilitation Center Turkey): Recent status of the Griffon
Vulture, Gyps fulvus in Turkey.

Sakoulis, A. Sc S. Xirouchakis: The status of vultures on Crete and details on a ringing and
a radiotracking project.

Hatzofe, O. (Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel [SPNI]): Consideration for the
selection of raptors for reintroduction and restocking programs.

Karl, E. (Salzburg Zoo): Energy requirements and body temperature of Griffon Vultures at
the northern European Alps.

Sarazin, F. Sc A. Robert (Paris University, Laboratoire d'Ecologie): Design and state of
development of an EGVWG database on vulture observations and ringing information.

Two local excursions to colonies and feeding sites in the Eastern Rhodopes (organised by the
NICCER team) were part of the meeting, and two other post-meeting excursions completed the

WINGSPAN

program. One of them was organised by Green Balkans and introduced us to their raptor
rehabilitation centre in Stara Zagora and veterinary facilities at the university there. The other was
organised by the World Wildlife Fund's Dadia Forest Reserve Project (Greece) to introduce us to this
special protected area and show us the vulture feeding sites and colonies on the southern side of the
Rhodopes. The excursions provided detailed information on Griffon, Black, and Egyptian vulture
colonies, as well as other raptor species and related ecological and anthropogenic circumstances.
These tours were an important part of the meeting program and reconfirmed the argument that
having meetings close to vulture colonies is important for understanding the local situation and for
our working group activities.

The importance of standardised protocols within a working group has been stressed since our first
annual meeting, resulting in general agreements for ageing, ringing, wing-tagging, and necropsy-
sampling. In addition to standardised methods, a common EGVWG database is essential for large-
scale analyses. Francois Sarrazin and his team (Paris University, Laboratoire d'Ecologie) made a
technical presentation on the integrated French database which handles mainly data on marked
individuals (ringed, wing-tagged, radio-tagged or microchip-tagged individuals) but also surveys of
colonies (such as breeding phenology and success). Data on feeding sites (numbers of observed
animals and food provided) can also be incorporated into this database. All participants agreed that
this database should be used as the common EGVWG platform to exchange data. To test suitability
of the database during practical work, a two-step approach will be followed, consisting of practical
tests by various groups during their local work and subsequent adaptation to needs revealed during
the testing phase. We hope that testing, adapting, and redesigning the database will be possible until
our next meeting, and final implementation can occur by then. A common agreement on use of the
database will be worked out at our next meeting (publication rights, etc.).

Two resolutions were passed by the delegates (see EGVWG's website; http://www.gyps.org). One
focuses on the importance of the Bulgarian Griffon Vulture population for the eastern European
range, the second deals with the massive threat to vulture populations caused by illegal poisoning.
As discussion on possible reintroduction/restocking activities has been an important subject at past
meetings, and related issues like rehabilitation/reintegration of birds have also received great interest,
two recommendations were worked out addressing these issues (see EGVWG's website). Both of
these position statements serve as basic guidelines for all EGVWG activities. In this context, the
establishment of a breeding stock is an important prerequisite for any reintroduction/restocking
activities; EGVWG supports Emilian Stoynov's (FWFF Bulgaria/Macedonia) proposal to continue
his work on this topic in close cooperation with the European studbook holder for Griffons (Inigo
Sanchez) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria, with the aim of establishing a
European Endangered Species Project on Eurasian Griffon Vultures. At present, there are no
indications that using Eurasian Griffons from the western European range would be questionable
from a scientific point of view. However, Francois Sarrazin and Ohad Hatzofe (SPNI) will continue
their work on genetic aspects.

The 3rd annual EGVWG meeting will be held in Ankara, Turkey from 3-6 October 2002. The
conference will be co-hosted by the EGVWG, the Turkish Society for Scientific Research &
Rehabilitation of Diurnal and Nocturnal Birds of Prey, and the Turkish Ministry of Forestry. The
meeting is open to everybody interested in vulture biology. Further details will be posted soon on
EGVWG's website.

1 14 1

1

l

SEPTEMBER 2002

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON NEOTROPICAL RAPTORS '

HARPY EAGLE SYMPOSIUM

The Peregrine Fund • Fondo Peregrino - Panama ■

Panama City, Panama
24 - 27 October 2002

The Peregrine Fund and Fondo Peregrino - Panama invite you to join scientists,
conservationists, resource managers, falconers, representatives of zoos, government and non-
governmental organizations, and other persons and institutions with an interest in research
and/or conservation of birds of prey in Latin America and the Caribbean to participate in a
meeting to share knowledge, interests, and concerns and help develop a network of
practitioners in the fields of raptor conservation, research, captive-breeding, and falconry.

The meeting will include:

• a one-day symposium dedicated to Harpy Eagle research, conservation, and captive
breeding

• a symposium dedicated to raptor migration in the Neotropics

• invited speakers on raptor biology and conservation

• contributed papers and posters on raptor conservation and research in the
Neotropics.

• a workshop to develop a network of practitioners in the field of raptor research and
conservation

• field trips to the Neotropical Raptor Center, Summit Gardens Harpy Eagle display,
and to observe raptor migration

Mark Your Calendars and Register Now!

^ Submit a registration form with payment for each participant.

^ Make your accommodation reservations at the Holiday Inn, Panama City by calling 1 -507-
206-5555 or sending a fax to 1-507-223-9043. Please be sure to indicate that you are attending
the Neotropical Conference to receive the reduced rate. You may also send an e-mail to
mmancuso@holidayinnpanama.com to make your reservation. If faxing or e-mailing your
reservation please provide the following information: last name, first name, type of room,
smoking or non smoking, check-in date and check-out date, arrival time to the hotel, and a
credit card number with expiration date. For more information on the Holiday Inn please visit:
http://www.holidayinnpanama.com.

Details and registration forms are available on The Peregrine Fund’s web-site at: http://www.
peregrinefund.org/nrconference.html. Or, contact: Neotropical Raptor Conference, The
Peregrine Fund, 5668 Flying Hawk Lane W, Boise, ID 83709 USA; phone: 1-208-362-3717;
fax: 1-208-362-2376: e-mail: tpf@peregrinefund.org .

a is t

WINGSPAN

NEWS FROM HAWK MOUNTAIN SANCTUARY AND ITS NEW
ACOPIAN CENTER FOR CONSERVATION LEARNING

by Keith L. Bildstein

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, the largest and oldest member-based raptor conservation organization in the
world, announces the opening of a new research and training facility, the Acopian Center for
Conservation Learning. Located at the foot of Hawk Mountain in the central Appalachian Mountains
of eastern Pennsylvania, the Acopian Center serves as the Sanctuary's global information hub for raptor
migration science and conservation.

Over the past two decades, more than 200 international interns from 38 countries have trained at Hawk
Mountain Sanctuary. Recognizing the need for increased housing and working space for this program,
Hawk Mountain decided to build a world-class research facility to meet this demand.

The Acopian Center includes residences for interns, graduate students, and visiting scientists, along with
a well-equipped research center. The latter, which is home to the Sanctuary’s programs in conservation
science, includes its library and archives, as well as a large conference room, map (GIS) lab, teaching
lab, and office space for 16 visiting students and scientists. In addition to living and working space,
residents at the new Center are provided with laptop computers linked to a wireless network that permits
ready access to Sanctuary databases, e-mail, and the Internet. The Acopian Center begins operations
in autumn 2002 with interns from Azerbaijan, Canada, Colombia, Kenya, New Zealand, and the United
States. A generous contribution from Mr. Sarkis Acopian made the facility possible.

Students with interests in raptor migration science and conservation, and in Appalachian Mountain
ecology can apply for places in the Sanctuary's four-month, autumn (15 August - 5 December) and
spring (15 March - 10 July) intern classes, and for briefer, two-month, summer (June - July) field
experiences. Information regarding these and other opportunities is available at the Sanctuary's web
page (www.hawkmountain.org), or by contacting Dr. Keith L. Bildstein, Director of Conservation
Science, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, 1700 Hawk Mountain Road, Kempton, PA 19529 USA, e-mail:
bildstein@hawkmountain.org .

THE MORLEY NELSON FELLOWSHIP

The Morley Nelson Fellowship, awarded by the Conservation Research Foundation, is a stipend of up
to $600 to support work reflecting the multi-faceted career of Morley Nelson. Priority will be given to
applicants in raptor research, management, and conservation who might use the stipend to supplement
or attract other funding. More than one award could be made each year, and Fellowships could extend
more than one year. The criteria for this Fellowship are broad and not restricted to raptor research;
anything bearing on the conservation of raptors will be considered, such as habitat issues, education,
cinematography, etc. Send three copies of a brief proposal (< 4 pages, including a 1-page personal
resume) outlining goals, objectives, and expected results/products of the study or activity; names of three
references; total budget; and other sources of support to: William G. Mattox, Conservation Research
Foundation, 8300 Gantz Avenue, Boise, ID 83709 USA, phone: 1-208-362-3435, e-mail (for information
onlyl: wgmattox@aol.com . Deadline is 1 October.

SEPTEMBER 2002

6th WORLD CONFERENCE ON BIRDS OF PREY AND OWLS
Budapest, Hungary, 18-23 May 2003

At the invitation of BirdLife Hungary, the 6th World Conference on Birds of Prey and
Owls will be held from 18-23 May 2003 in Budapest. All persons interested in either
Falconiformes or Strigiformes are cordially invited to attend the conference, irrespective
of whether they are members of WWGBP, the World Working Group on Birds of Prey
and Owls. The conference will be held in the Hotel Agro Conference Centre, situated
on Svabhegy, the highest point of the hilly district of Buda, with a panoramic view of
Budapest and on the edge of a forest full of bird life. Fully equipped with up-to-date
technical services, the centre can accommodate up to 500 participants in its main hall and
classrooms, with a number of additional meeting rooms, and is easily reached by bus
from the centre of the city (15 min.).

The scientific programme will run from Monday, 19 May, to Friday, 23 May, with a
break on 21 May for one-day excursions. Suggestions for the conference (themes,
submission of papers, excursions, etc.) are welcome and should be e-mailed, faxed, or
sent to; WWGBP, P.O. Box 52, Towcester NN12 7ZW, England; phone/fax:
44-1604-862331; e-mail: WWGBP@aol.com and robin.chancellor@virgin.net (please
send all e-mail to both addresses).

As with previous World Conferences, resolutions will be adopted at the end of the
meeting and subsequently sent to the governments and other organisations concerned.
In the past, these resolutions have in some degree proved to be powerful instruments in
the conservation of birds of prey. Since the textual editing and translation have proved
time-consuming, draft resolutions should be submitted at least one month before the
opening of the conference to the WWGBP Secretary (R. D. Chancellor, robin.
chancellor@virgin.net ). For the formulation of these, kindly refer to the texts of
resolutions from previous World Conferences, as printed in the relevant proceedings.

Hungary is now firmly established as one of Europe's best regions for birding. With a
wide variety of largely unspoilt or else well-protected habitats, it has an impressive range
of species, many of them rare elsewhere, among which are 24 regular diurnal raptors and
8 regular owls, including flourishing populations of Imperial Eagle and Saker Falcon.
Following the conference, participants can accordingly choose among six different 3 -day
and 5 -day excursions to the choicest areas of the country.

Full conference details-including registration and abstract submission forms, and post-
conference excursion descriptions and prices-can be found on the WWGBP website
(http://www.raptors-international.de/NEXT_CONFERENCE/next_conference.
html) or requested from the addresses given above.

WINGSPAN

THE BIRD OF PREY MANAGEMENT
INTERNATIONAL DISTANCE-LEARNING COURSE

Falconry and the breeding of raptors are currently expanding in the western world. Therefore it is
increasingly important for falconers, breeders, and those concerned with the rehabilitation and veterinary
health of these birds to have some knowledge of the welfare needs of their birds and a general
understanding of their biology.

We have come up with a series of bird of prey management videos which is being developed into a
modular tuition course for those interested in the welfare, health, and keeping of birds of prey. There
are many books available on the subject, but we believe that people learn best from a moving image
supported by sound and the written word. We hope to bring the series to DVD in the near future.

Our approach is not a how-to-do-it one, rather a "let's ask the birds" one. So, we constantly refer back
to the birds in the wild as a starting point for finding out their needs and characteristics. We also show
how the same problems are handled in different ways in different countries and traditions. Underlying
everything is a strong scientific approach, questioning everything rather than taking traditions for
granted. Although the course is a type of distance learning, we do not provide a certificate nor is there
any course work. Our aim is to get the information circulated as widely as possible so that the birds
benefit.

So far we have produced four modules; each consists of a film of 60 to 90 minutes duration with a
technical handbook to accompany. It takes six months to produce each module, and we have been
filming up to three years ahead. The first four modules are: Nutrition, Basic Training, Anatomy, and
Health Care. We are currently filming for the next module on Captive Breeding. Further modules will
deal with fitness, housing, and first aid (see www.falcons.co.uk/faraway/ffp/). They are filmed in many
countries and aimed at anyone dealing with raptors either as a hobby or in a professional capacity. The
consultants and tutors for the series are professionally qualified up to Ph.D. standard.

The films are currently available in English, Spanish and Arabic; if we identify a need for another
language, this must be added before DVD formatting. The technical handbooks are in English only, and
the book which accompanies the series, Understanding the Bird of Prey , is available in English and
Spanish by 2003.

Now that we have produced the first four modules, we are looking to present them to a wider market.
We would like to offer the course, or any modules from the course that are suitable to your needs, as part
of the teaching or training programmes through your organisation. Rather than waiting until we have
a complete series, we would prefer to start using the modules in a more organized way and get feedback
from users to help improve the modules as we go along. This programme is unique, and we hope its use
will inform and educate people in an area where they would otherwise have limited knowledge. This
we hope will then indirectly benefit the birds of prey themselves.

If you are interested, please contact me and see if we can help.

Kind regards,

Nick Fox

| 18

1

SEPTEMBER 2002

The Bird of Prey Management Series

Module 1 Nutrition - Covers diets of wild raptors, choices of diets for captive raptors, digestion,
measuring the crop, rangle, casting, washed meat, supplements, diets for baby raptors, risks in feeding
wild food and much more. Includes 36-page handbook, (running time 50 min.; PAL and NTSC;
English, Spanish, and Arabic).

Module 2 Basic Training - Covers hacking, sources of birds, hooding, fitting equipment, and progress
charts, and follows the training of a Peregrine Falcon, Saker, and Harris Hawk from hack to flying free.
Includes 28-page handbook, (running time 52 min., PAL and NTSC, English).

Module 3 Anatomy - Learn about the skeleton, respiratory, reproductive, circulatory and immune
systems, how the different organs function and where they are in the body. A knowledge of form and
function is vital to understanding aspects of health care, management and training. Includes 32-page
handbook, (running time 67 min., PAL and NTSC, English).

Module 4 Health Care NEW RELEASE! ! - How to recognize the signs of ill health, what course of
action to take, and how to look after your bird once the problem has been diagnosed. It looks in detail
at hygiene, the immune system, viruses, and vaccination. It covers disease prevention during early
training, parasites, respiratory problems, and lead poisoning. We learn where diseases come from, how
to avoid them and how to give medication. We join some avian veterinarians in surgery to show you
some of the treatment procedures. Includes 34-page handbook, (running time 85 min., PAL and NTSC,
English).

Each module costs 24.99GBP + postage (2.00GBP for one vjdeo; 3.50GBP for two; 4.50GBP for three
or more). Each module contains a voucher for 5GBP off subsequent purchases. To place an order, or
for more information, please contact: Gemma Thomson, Faraway Film Productions, P.O. Box 19,
Carmarthen SA33 5YL, Wales, UK; phone/fax: 44-1267-233864; e-mail: hfi-staff@easynet.co.uk .

(Editor's note; To improve The Bird Prey Management Series, Faraway Film Productions would like
to hear from knowledgeable individuals interested in providing thoughtful reviews. Please contact Ms.
Thomson if you are interested in reviewing one or more of the modules.)

FILM' EVENINGS AT 6th WORLD CONFERENCE

In the evenings during the 6th World Conference on Birds of Prey and Owls, there
will be showings of films, videos, and slides. Please advise the World Working
Group on Birds of Prey and Owls, Wangenheimstr. 32, D- 141 93 Berlin, Germany
(fax: 49-30-8928067, e-mail: WWGBP@aol.com ) well in advance if you wish to take
part, clearly stating the medium (e.g., film or slides), duration, and other technical
details, so that a programme may be prepared.

m 19 . i

WINGSPAN

RAPTOR RESEARCH FOUNDATION &

3rd NORTH AMERICAN ORNITHOLOGICAL CONFERENCE

New Orleans, Louisiana, September 24-28, 2002

This quadrennial event is a wonderful opportunity to exchange ideas and network with ornithologists
across the globe, as it is a joint meeting of the American Ornithologists Union, The Cooper
Ornithological Society, the Society of Canadian Ornithologists, the Raptor Research Foundation, the
Mexican Ornithological Society (CIPAMEX), and the Society for the Conservation and Study of
Caribbean Birds.

Plenary sessions: A new view of avian life history evolution applied to parental care, clutch size, and
developmental patterns across the world (T. E. Martin), On a wing and a prayer: Is endocrine disruption
affecting birds? (T. Colborn), The ongoing transformation to molecular-genealogical thought in avian
microevolution: Conceptual springboard, quicksand, or both? (J. Avise), Migratory orientation:
Development and adaptive plasticity (K. P. Able).

Meeting roundtables: Bird strike mitigation: Opportunities in applied ornithology (J. M. Lamb),
Satellite telemetry methods (K. D. Meyer, J. A. Coulson & B. A. Millsap), Natural climate variability
and birds: Recent advances in our understanding of world climate systems, and an examination of their
effect on avian population dynamics (E. A. Schreiber & D. Gemmill), Celebrating 100 years of bird
banding in North America (J. Tautin et al.), Conservation and ecology of disturbance-dependent birds
(F. R. Thompson III & J. Brawn).

Meeting workshops include three offered by M. Gustafson: Introduction to Band Manager, Advanced
Band Manager , Ageing and sexing birds in the hand (and in the field), as well as Conservation of Gyps
vultures in Asia (J. Parry-Jones & T. Katzner).

Field trips offered are day trips: Grand Isle (barrier island), Endangered and extinct (?) woodpeckers
(Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, Pearl River Wildlife Management Area), Birding the
Mississippi Gulf Coast Region (includes the Mississippi Sandhill Crane NWR), Bayou Sauvage NWR,
The Chandeleurs and the Mississippi River Delta (Breton NWR and Delta NWR), Hummingbird
Gardens of the South, Jean Lafitte National Flistorical Park and Preserve, and a nocturnal owl prowl.
Canoe trips include paddling through the Manchac Swamp, the Big Branch Marsh National Wildlife
Refuge, the Bogue Chitto River, and Devil’s Swamp. Southeast Louisiana is famous for high densities
of "swamp stomping" Red-shouldered Hawks and Barred Owls; they are likely to be seen on any trip.

New Orleans is famous for its food, jazz, international culture, hospitality, and party atmosphere. The
price of registration includes admission to the Tuesday night social at the Aquarium of the Americas
featuring the film Wings Ch>er the Wetlands, Louisiana hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar; the Thursday
night mid-conference picnic and party at the House of Blues with live zydeco music, a Cajun buffet
dinner, and free drinks; and two art shows, The Audubon legacy: The ornithologist as artist, and
Anderson, Audubon et aL

Contact: http://www.tulane.edu/~naoc-02 or UNO Conference Services - NAOC 2002, Metropolitan
College, New Orleans, LA 70148-9999 USA; phone: 1-800-258-8830; fax 1-504-280-7317; e-mail:
confmc@uno.edu .

SEPTEMBER 2002

ANNOUNCEMENTS

UPCOMING MEETINGS

2002

September 24-28

RAPTOR RESEARCH FOUNDATION (3rd
NORTH AMERICAN ORNITHOLOGICAL
CONFERENCE)

New Orleans, Louisiana

Contact: http://www.tulane.edu/~naoc-02 or
UNO Conference Services - NAOC 2002,
Metropolitan College, New Orleans, LA 70148-
9999 USA; phone: 1-800-258-8830; fax: 1-504-
280-7317: e-mail: confmc@.uno,edu .

October 3-6

EAST EUROPEAN / MEDITERRANEAN
GRIFFON VULTURE WORKING GROUP
Ankara, Turkey

Contact: http://www.gyps.org or Edwin

Vaassen, e-mail: rrrct@yahoo, co.uk .

October 24-27

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON
NEOTROPICAL RAPTORS AND HARPY
EAGLE SYMPOSIUM ■

Panama City, Panama

Contact: http://www.peregrinefund.org/

nrconference.html or Neotropical Raptor
Conference, The Peregrine Fund, 5668 Flying
Hawk Lane W, Boise, ID 83709 USA; phone: 1-
208-362-3717; fax: 1-208-362-2376; e-mail: tpf@
peregrinefund.org .

November 23-25

3rd INTERNATIONAL LITTLE OWL

SYMPOSIUM

Northwich, England

Contact: Roy Leigh, Biota, Ascot Court 71-73
Middlewich Road, Northwich, Cheshire CW9
7BP, England; e-mail: RoySLeigh@aol.com .

1 21

2003

May 18-23

6th WORLD CONFERENCE ON BIRDS OF
PREY AND OWLS
Budapest, Hungary

Contact: http://www.raptors-international.de/
NEXT CONFERENCE/next_conference.html
or World Working on Birds of Prey and Owls,
P.O. Box 52, Towcester NN12 7ZW, England;
phone/fax: 44-1604-862331; e-mail: WWGBP@.
aol.com and robin.chancellor@virgin.net (please
send all e-mail to both addresses).

September 2-6

RAPTOR RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Fairbanks, Alaska

Contact: http://www.alaskabird.org or Nancy
DeWitt, Alaska Bird Observatory, P.O. Box
80505, Fairbanks, AK 99708 USA; phone: 1-907-
451-7159; e-mail: birds@alaskabird.org .

October 10-13

3rd SYMPOSIUM ON ASIAN RAPTORS
Renting, Taiwan

Contact: Raptor Research Group of Taiwan, 12
F., No. 309, Fu-Hsin N. Rd. Taipei 105, Taiwan,
R.O.C.; phone: 886-2-87706470; fax: 886-2-
87706469; e-mail: rrgt@seed.net.tw or vcsheu@
ccvax.sinica.edu.tw.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

BLACK SEA RAPTOR SURVEYS The
Georgian Centre for the Conservation of Wildlife,
BirdLife International's affiliate in Georgia, is
looking for observers with good raptor
identification skills to take part in autumn raptor
migration monitoring along the eastern coast of
the Black Sea, in the Batumi area. Observations
will take place from 1 September to 15 November,
at three observation places. Two foreign
observers will be accompanied by local hosts who
should also be trained in species identification.

WINGSPAN

Observers are encouraged to stay for at least two
weeks, but this is negotiable, of course. The local
costs are about $10 US a day for food and
accommodation, plus $10-20 per day for optional
travel if the volunteer wants to travel back and
forth among watch-sites or elsewhere. Observers
will be accommodated at the houses of local
observers in order to increase benefits to the local
economy and encourage local conservation
efforts. For further information, please contact:
Lexo Gavashelishvili ( lexo@mvmail.ge ) and
Ramaz Gokhelashvili ( Ramaz Gokhelashvili@
dai.com ). Send your message to both addresses.

PART-TIME MEWS MANAGER for Denver
non-profit foundation. Two years experience
handling raptors (preferably in an education/
zoological setting) required. E-mail resumes to:
raptoress@aol.com .

SAKER FALCON SURVEYS We plan to
undertake Saker Falcon surveys in 2003 in the
Tibetan Plateau of central China between April
and July. We will have places available for one or
two volunteers to join the team for the season.
Living and working conditions will be severe to
arduous. Surveys will be on foot, horse and car.
Participants must speak Chinese or English, thrive
on a diet of yak and noodles, and have no anti-
social habits. We can guarantee you an
experience you will never forget. Contact: Dr.
Nick Fox, Director of Falcon Research and
Management, The Environmental Research
and Wildlife Development Agency, Abu Dhabi,
UAE; e-mail: office@falcons.co.uk .

PUBLICATIONS AVAILABLE

"COOL NORTH WIND: MORLEY

NELSON'S LIFE WITH BIRDS OF PREY"
(ISBN 0-87004-426-5), by Stephen Stuebner, tells
the story of one of America's foremost spokesmen
for falcons, hawks, and eagles. Morley Nelson
has devoted most of his eighty-plus years to the
conservation of birds of prey. A master falconer
and gifted film maker, he has worked to educate
sportsmen, elected officials, leaders of industry,
and the general public about the important role

raptors play in the world's ecosystem. Nelson was
instrumental in the campaign to establish the
Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation
Area, home to one of the largest concentrations of
breeding raptors in the world. He has worked on
seven motion pictures and numerous television
specials with his trained eagles and falcons, and
crafted solutions to resolve raptor-electrocution
problems. This 42 7 -page hardcover book may be
purchased for $US 24.95 plus shipping from the
publisher: Caxton Press, 312 Main Street,
Caldwell, ID 83605-3299 USA; phone: 1-800-
657-6465; fax: 1-208-459-7450; e-mail:

publish@caxtonpress.com . A 15% discount is
offered for on-line orders: http://www.

caxtonpress.com.

"RAPTORS OF THE PACIFIC
NORTHWEST" (ISBN 1-57188-236-7) More
than a field guide, this 152-page, all-color
handbook by Thomas Bosakowski and Dwight G.
Smith details the range, status, habitat
requirements, nesting, eggs and young, diet and
hunting behavior, territory and density, survey
techniques, and conservation and management of
raptors in the Pacific Northwest of the United
States. This 6" x 9", softbound guide contains
color range maps and text for 35 raptor species
along with over 145 color photographs of raptors
and their habitats. The text includes an
introduction, 35 species accounts, 3 appendices,
and over 340 references. This book may be
purchased for $US 19.95 plus shipping from the
publisher: Frank Amato Publications, Inc., P.O.
Box 82112, Portland, OR 97282 USA; phone: 1-
800-541-9498; e-mail: service@,amatobooks.
com : web: http://www.amatobooks.com.

ON-LINE RESOURCES

ITALIAN RAPTOR CONFERENCE
ABSTRACTS Abstracts of 100 papers presented
at the First Italian Conference on Diurnal and
Nocturnal Raptors (Villa Aibrizzi-Franchetti,
Treviso, March 9-10, 2002) may be viewed and
downloaded at the Associazione Faunisti Veneti's
website: http://faunistiveneti.it. Most (94) of the
abstracts are in Italian; six are in English.

SEPTEMBER 2002

RAPTOR DISCUSSION GROUPS The World
Working Group on Birds of Prey and Owls
(WWGBP) has recently created several Yahoo
Discussion Groups. Members regularly receive
by e-mail news items of interest, conference
announcements, members' requests for
information, etc. in the shortest possible time.
The Raptor Conservation group replaces Raptor
News , the former e-mail newsletter of WWGBP.
Other groups are: Greifvogel, a German speaking
group; Spotted Eagles; Vulture Conservation; and
Satellite Telemetry. Information on joining these
groups can be found at http://www.raptors™
international.de/DISCUSSION_GRPS/
discussion_grps.html.

NEWS OF MEMBERS

Nancy Read Francine, Co-Chair of RRF's
Education Committee, has new contact
information: P.O. Box 714, Los Alamos, CA
93440-0714 USA; phone: 1-805-344-2428; e-
mail: nancy.read@mindspring.com .

Brian W. Smith recently started a new job in
Frankfort, Kentucky. He is now Grassland
Systems Program Coordinator for the Kentucky
Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources. He is
still working towards completion of his
dissertation from West Virginia University. Brian
may be contacted at: Kentucky Department of
Fish & Wildlife Resources, #1 Game Farm Road,
Frankfort, KY 40601 USA; phone: 1-502-564-
5448 ext. 494; e-mail: bwsmith533@vahoo.com .

REQUESTS FOR ASSISTANCE

LESSER KESTREL TISSUE SAMPLES We
have started a project on the origin of Lesser
Kestrels ( Falco naumanni) wintering in South
Africa. They have communal roosting sites where
several thousand birds gather each evening. We
would like to determine the origin of these birds,
e.g., whether they come from European or Asian
breeding sites and whether populations mix here.
We have established DNA markers that allow

such a phylogeographic analysis. Our project can
only proceed if we can obtain samples from as
many breeding colonies as possible. DNA can be
best recovered from blood but also fresh moulting
feathers can be used. If you have access to such
material please contact us. Consider that Lesser
Kestrels are subject to CITES regulations.
Contact: Prof. Dr. M. Wink, University
Heidelberg, Institut fuer Pharmazeutische
Bioiogie, Im Neuenheimer Feld 364, 69120
Heidelberg, Germany; e-mail: wink@uni-hd.
de .

LITERATURE SOUGHT I am currently
conducting a variety of literature searches for
published papers and notes pertaining to all
aspects of Falconiform and Strigiform species, as
well as Black Vultures and Turkey V ultures,
found east of the Mississippi River in North
America . I am especially interested in items
published since 1979, and in state or regional
ornithology or raptor journals. This search is the
first step in the writing of a new book, Hawks and
Owls of Eastern North America , to be published
next year by Rutgers University Press. If you
have published any such papers or notes, I very
much want to receive reprints or photocopies of
those publications so the information they contain
can be considered for possible inclusion in this
forthcoming book. Thanks very much for your
interest and assistance. Please mail all reprints
and/or photocopies to: Doiiald S. Heintzelman,
Editor and Publisher, International
Hawkwatcher, 629 Green Street, Allentown, PA
18102 USA: e-maii: donsh@enter.net .

OPTICAL EQUIPMENT - DONATIONS &
TRANSPORT NEEDED! Requests are coming
in much faster than donations for RRF's optical
equipment donation program supporting raptor
research and educational projects worldwide. If
you have equipment in good working condition
that you are no longer using, please consider
donating it to RRF for distribution to worthy
programs that lack the resources to purchase new
optics. Past donations have helped programs in
Mexico, South America, Russia, and other areas
around the globe. In addition to the more typical
requests for binoculars and spotting scopes, we
have also received a few requests for dissecting

m. 23 i

WINGSPAN

microscopes, to be used for owl pellet analyses,
necropsies, and other studies. Donations are
distributed through the RRF Education Committee
and are tax-deductible. The committee would also
appreciate hearing from anyone who periodically
travels between the United States and Latin
America, and would be willing to transport
donated equipment to recipients. Please direct
donations and inquiries to: Nancy Read

Francine, P.O. Box 714, Los Alamos, CA
93440-0714 USA; phone: 1-805-344-2428; e-
mail: nancy.read@mindspring.com .

FOR SALE

RRF PUBLICATIONS Back issues of The

Journal of Raptor Research (TJRR) Vol. 1-30 and
all Raptor Research Reports may be purchased
directly from RRF (Jim Fitzpatrick, Carpenter
St. Croix Valley Nature Center, 12805 St. Croix
Trail S, Hastings, MN 55033 USA; phone: 1-
651-437-4359; fax: 1-651-438-2908; e-mail:
iim@carpenternaturecenter.org L Some older
issues of TJRR are not available. See http://
biology. boisestate.edu/raptor/rrf.htm#Back
issues for details and prices. Orders for four or
more volumes receive a 30% discount. RRF
decals and pins also are available. Vol. 31+ of
TJRR may be purchased from the Ornithological
Societies of North America (Penny Wendland,
P.O. Box 1897, Lawrence, KS 66044 USA;
phone: 1-800-627-0629, ext. 233; fax: 1-785-
843-1274; e-mail: osna@allenpress.com V

RECENT THESES ON RAPTORS

The U.S. Geological Survey's Richard R. Olendorff Memorial Library would greatly
appreciate receiving a copy of each thesis or dissertation abstracted in Wingspan. This
allows the Library to make theses available to scientists and managers worldwide through
its Raptor Information System (RIS, see Wingspan 7(1 ): 1 6). Please send theses to:
Olendorff Memorial Library, U.S. Geological Survey, Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem
Science Center, Snake River Field Station, 970 Lusk Street, Boise, ID 83706 USA.

Fontaine, A. J. 2002. HABITAT SELECTION OF RED-TAILED HAWKS (BUTEO
JAMAICENSIS) IN PRAIRIE LANDSCAPES MANAGED FOR ENHANCED
WATERFOWL RECRUITMENT. M.S. Thesis, McGill Univ., Montreal. 102pp.

In the Canadian prairies, a major change has occurred in the raptor community of the central
grasslands, where Swainson’s (Buteo swainsoni) and ferruginous hawks ( B . regalis) are being replaced
by the Red-tailed Hawk (B. jamaicensis). The former central grasslands are now much reduced in size
and have been replaced by an agricultural landscape with a mosaic of habitats now more recognized as
aspen parkland. Although habitat requirements of Swainson’s and ferruginous hawks are relatively well
known, little is known about habitat use by Red-tailed Hawks in this region. This study evaluates
productivity and habitat selection of Red-tailed Hawks breeding in aspen parkland. The study was
conducted on Prairie Habitat Joint Venture (PHJV) assessment sites in central Saskatchewan in 1997
and 1998. Red-tailed Hawk nesting densities and productivity were determined at three sites. Home
ranges were mapped. Microhabitat variables were measured in 0.04 ha plots centered on nest sites and
in random locations. Macrohabitat use and availability data were generated based on digitized aerial

SEPTEMBER 2002

photographs of the sites using a Geographic Information System (GIS). Nesting densities averaging 0.40
nests/km 2 were similar to those in other aspen parkland areas but much higher than those more typical
of the prairies and in most areas across the continent. All territorial pairs attempted to breed. Densities
were limited by availability of nest sites, intraspecific territoriality, and minimum spatial requirements.
Nests were dispersed regularly at two sites but clumped around the best hunting habitat at the other. The
number of young fledged/nest (0.95) was low compared to other studies but nest success (63.6%) was
similar. Red-tailed Hawks nested in areas with significantly more and larger overstory canopy trees but
with significantly fewer trees in intermediate crown classes and lower canopy cover. The selection of
these nest site features suggests that Red-tailed Hawks select nest sites with an unobstructed flight access
and good visibility. Nests were in areas with greater amounts of waterfowl dense nesting cover (DNC),
scrubland, and woodland and lesser amounts of cropland and human-related habitats when compared
to randomly selected sites. Preference or avoidance of these cover types was related to prey abundance.
DNG had a positive effect on productivity whereas pastures had a negative effect. Red-tailed Hawks
may choose nest sites based on habitat characteristics within a 750 m radius from nest sites, which
indicates a minimum spatial requirement of 1 .77 km 2 in aspen parkland. Saskatchewan’s aspen parkland
provides excellent nesting habitat for Red-tailed Hawks. Nests were highly successful in areas managed
for enhanced waterfowl recruitment. DNC and scrubland provide abundant prey, and other studies
suggest that the abundant waterfowl in the surrounding wetlands form an important component of their
diet. Resource managers should consider these factors when addressing the effects of habitat and
predation on waterfowl in the region.

Kenntner, N. 2002. CHLORORGANISCHE .PESTIZIDE, POLYCHLORIERTE

BIPHENYLE UND POTENTIELL TOXISCHE SCHWERMETALLE IN ORGANPROBEN
YON SEAADLERN UND HABICHTEN (CHLORINATED PESTICIDES,

POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS AND POTENTIALLY TOXIC HEAVY METALS IN
ORGANS OF WHITE-TAILED EAGLES AND NORTHERN GOSHAWKS). Ph.D. Diss.,
Freie Universitat Berlin. 86pp.

{Editor's note: Dr. Kenntner' s entire dissertation may be viewed on-line at http.V/darwin. inf. fu-
berlin.de/2002/129/indexe.html. One chapter is in German, and three are in English; an English
abstract and summary are included.)

Love, O. P, 2001. ADRENOCORTICAL FUNCTION IN POSTN AT ALLY' DEVELOPING
AMERICAN KESTRELS (FALCO SPARVERIUS). M.S. Thesis, McGill Univ., Montreal.
87pp.

This project investigated postnatal development of adrenocortical function in captive American
Kestrels ( Falco spaiyerius) employing measurements of basal and stress- induced levels of corticosterone
at specific developmental stages. Chicks aged 10-days exhibited partially functioning adrenocortical
systems with baseline levels comparable to adults. The ability to respond to external stressors increased
through postnatal development and by the age of 22 days, stress-induced maximal levels of
corticosterone were indistinguishable from those of one-year old adults, and levels of 28-day old birds
were significantly higher than these adults. In addition, baseline and maximum stress-induced levels
of corticosterone at all ages were significantly higher in first-hatched chicks than all other siblings and
these effects grew stronger through development. These results suggest that the brain-pituitary-adrenal
axis in this semi-altricial species is (1) already partially developed in young chicks and (2) only becomes
fully functional when behavioral and neuromuscular development is nearly complete. Furthermore,

WINGSPAN

results from this study suggest that hatching asynchrony has an effect on this variation in stress- induced
maximal levels of corticosterone during the latter half of postnatal development, with a higher degree
of hatching asynchrony leading to larger disparity in adrenocortical function between first- and
fourth-hatched chicks. This adrenocortical disparity resulting from female-mediated hatching
asynchrony can potentially lead to both brood-reduction and brood survival under diametric food
conditions, ensuring that the female's reproductive fitness is maximized in varying habitats. Variation
of adrenocortical function among siblings may increase female efficiency in raising a brood of fit chicks,
maximizing her reproductive success.

McBride, T. J. 2002. METAL EXPOSURE AND EFFECTS IN AMERICAN KESTREL
(FALCO SPAR VERIUS) NESTLINGS RAISED ON A SMELTER-IMPACTED SUPERFUND
SITE. M.S. Thesis, Texas Tech. Univ., Lubbock. 130pp.

Nestling American Kestrels (Falco sparverius) inhabiting nest boxes placed throughout the
Anaconda Smelter Superfund Site, Montana, were monitored for reproductive success and growth over
two successive breeding seasons. A gradient of decreasing soil contaminant concentrations occurred
with increasing distance away from the smelter stack. The contaminants of concern (COCs; arsenic,
cadmium, lead, copper, and zinc) were determined in food items, pellets, fecal/urate, blood, kidney and
liver tissues. Hepatic and renal porphyrin profiles were characterized, and erythrocyte ALAD inhibition
assessed, for use as indicators of health effects.

Site wide in 1999, 43 chicks hatched (8 1 %) with 41 surviving to fledging age (95.3% fledging
efficiency). In 2000, 34 chicks hatched (59%) with 32 surviving to fledging age (94% fledging
efficiency). Nestling growth and demographics did not appear related to tissue contaminant levels.

Active boxes were grouped into two site types (Smelter Hill and Opportunity Ponds) based on their
proximity to the smelter site. In 1999, Smelter Hill birds had higher blood lead, liver cadmium, lead,
and copper, and kidney cadmium. In 2000, only blood samples were collected, with notably increased
lead and cadmium from Smelter Hill birds.

Inhibition of erythrocyte ALAD activity at the highest blood lead concentrations indicated lead
concentrations reached a threshold level sufficient to initiate biochemical effects. An increase in liver
4-carboxyl porphyrin at the highest liver lead levels likewise suggested sufficient exposure to initiate
disruption of heme synthesis.

Food items were collected from each active nest. COC concentrations were higher in samples from
Smelter Hill boxes, with notable increases seen in arsenic and lead. Contaminant levels in food items
were sufficiently high for accumulation in nestling tissues, with elevated levels occurring in nestlings
closer in proximity to the smelter.

Roe, A. S. 2001. THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN AVIAN BIOSENTINEL PROGRAM FOR
MICHIGAN USING THE BALD EAGLE (HALIAEETUS LEUCOCEPHAL US). M.S. Thesis,
Clemson Univ., Clemson, S.C. 89pp.

The Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) is a tertiary predator of the Great Lakes Basin aquatic
food web. Due to its position at the top of the food chain, the Bald Eagle is susceptible to accumulation
and biomagnification of a wide array of xenobiotics, including mercury and organochlorine compounds.
The International Joint Commission and the State Of The Lake Ecosystem Conference members have
suggested the Bald Eagle as a biological indicator species of the toxic effects of organochlorine
compounds on piscivorus wildlife and on the effects of bioaccumulation and biomagnification in the

\^— ————— — — — - -j, r~~~ ~ z:z:i:r:izzzz^zizizz^ 3

SEPTEMBER 2002

Great Lakes.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality implemented a monitoring program using the
Bald Eagle to monitor trends of Bioaccumulative Compounds of Concern (BCCs) under the Clean
Michigan Initiative. These compounds include polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine
pesticides (OCs), and mercury. The state has been divided into major watersheds, this sampling
procedure will allow for the entire state to be sampled every five years. Each year, during normal
banding activities, blood and feather samples from nestling Bald Eagles are collected within these
designated watersheds.

Concentrations of total mercury, total PCBs, and l ,1 -dichloro-2,2-bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethylene
(p,p'-DDE) were measured in nestling tissues. A significant decrease in concentrations of mercury was
observed in feathers of nestling Bald Eagles at Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota, between 1985-1989
and 1999-2000, while other sub-population mercury concentrations in Michigan remained the same.
Concentrations of total PCBs and p,p'-DDE in plasma of nestling Bald Eagles have declined for. most
sub-populations in Michigan. Between 1989-1992 and 1999-2000, total PCB concentrations
significantly decreased in all sub-populations. Concentrations of p,p'-DDE significantly decreased in
all sub-populations except Lakes Michigan and Huron.

The Bald Eagle has been shown to be an appropriate model to monitor ecosystem contaminant
levels. Great Lakes nestling Bald Eagles are receiving prey items from within the adult's local breeding
territory. Concentrations of BCCs in nestling eagle feathers and blood reflect exposure to BCCs from
within their food items. The Bald Eagle is therefore an appropriate indicator of ecosystem and water
quality.

WINGSPAN CONTRIBUTIONS

The Raptor Research Foundation, Inc. wishes to thank the following people who
contributed material to this issue of Wingspan : Mark Anderson, Keith Bildstein, Clint
Boa!, Ralf Boegel, Thomas Bosakowski, Jack Caffe rty, Bill Clark, C. W. Cornell,
Jennifer Coulson, Jim Fitzpatrick, Alain Fontaine, Nick Fox, Nancy Read Francine,
Umberto Gallo-Orsi, Donald Heintzelman, Todd Katzner, Oliver Love, Bill Mattox,
Toby McBride, Mike McGrady, Bernd-Ulrich Meyburg, Brian Millsap, Jemima
Parry-Jones, Anne Price, Amy Roe, Jevgeni Shergalin, Leopold Slotta-Bachmayr,
Brian Smith, Jeff Smith, Andrea Swingley, Gemma Thomson, Munir Virani, Roger
Wang, Michael Wink, Petra Bohall Wood, and The World Working Group on Birds
of Prey and Owls.

Wingspan welcomes contributions from RRF members and others interested in raptor
biology and management. Articles and announcements should be sent, faxed, or e»
mailed to the editor: Leonard Young, 1640 Oriole Lane NW, Olympia, WA 98502-4342
USA (phone/fax: 1-360-943-7394, e-mail: wingspan@attbi.com ). Deadline for the next
issue is February 7, 2003.

WINGSPAN

SEPTEMBER 2002

GYPS VULTURE WORKSHOP

To all those interested in vultures and particularly in the decline of Gyps vultures in India
and Pakistan.

There will be a workshop on the decline of Gyps vultures in the Indian Sub Continent to be
held at the Third North American Ornithological Conference in New Orleans. The meeting
dates are September 24-28, 2002, and the Vulture Workshop will be held on Thursday,
September 26, from 2:15-5:15 PM. This workshop will be chaired by Todd Katzner and
Jemima Parry-Jones.

A tentative list of speakers includes Dr. Debbie Pain, Dr. Munir Virani (or another
representative from The Peregrine Fund), Todd Katzner, Jemima Parry-Jones, Dr. Lindsay
Oaks, Dr. Mark Anderson, and Campbell Murn.

We would like to encourage as many people as possible to participate. We hope that by
September we will be closer to identifying the cause of the vulture decline. Therefore, one
goal of the workshop is to come up with a series of recommendations for the conservation
of this genus.

For further information as we have it, contact us at tkatzner@asu.edu or ipi@nbpc. demon.
co.uk . or go to the conference web site: http://www.tulane.edu/~naoc-02/.

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