Nesting of birds of prey in conditions of SNNP “Buiratau”: the influence of biotic and anthropogenic factors
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Keywords

birds of prey
nesting
reproduction
Golden Eagle
Imperial Eagle
Saker Falcon

population
habitat
nature conservation

Abstract

The article presents the results of monitoring the nesting of rare species of birds of prey – golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), burial ground (Aquila heliaca) and steppe eagle (Aquila nipalensis) – on the territory of the Buiratau State National Nature Park (GNPP), covering an area of 88,968 hectares. The research was conducted during the nesting season of 2025, during which 32 active nests of these species were registered. The main attention is paid to the analysis of the success of reproduction, the reasons for the unavailability of clutches and the assessment of the influence of biotic and anthropogenic factors on the state of populations.

It was revealed that the highest nesting success rates are characteristic of the burial ground, which is associated with a stable food supply and favorable living conditions within the protected area. The golden eagle demonstrated an average level of success, while the steppe eagle showed minimal results. Adverse weather conditions, lack of food, egg death in the early stages of incubation, as well as anxiety factors caused by human activity are among the main reasons for unsuccessful clutches. The data obtained indicate the need to strengthen measures to protect breeding biotopes, minimize anthropogenic impact and continue long-term monitoring of populations of rare species of eagles. The observations make it possible to more accurately assess population trends, identify vulnerable areas of the range, and offer specific recommendations for habitat conservation. The results of the study can serve as a scientific basis for the development of environmental protection strategies and programs for sustainable management of the territory of the National Research Enterprise "Buiratau".

https://doi.org/10.64863/2312-4784/2025-3-50/119-131%20
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