Researching Raptors among the Ruins

A groundbreaking 9-year study at Tikal National Park, Guatemala, documented the ecology and spatial needs of 20 species of Neotropical raptors, including two owls, revealing unprecedented insights into their morphology, diet, hunting behavior, habitat use, breeding patterns, vocalizations, population density, and conservation status. The research, conducted by The Peregrine Fund's Maya Project, employed innovative field techniques such as observation points atop ruins and emergent trees, taped call broadcasts, nest traps, and radio tracking to overcome the challenges posed by the dense, humid rainforest environment. Notably, the project located 70 nests of the barred forest falcon (Micrastur), a species whose nests and eggs had never been previously described, despite its commonality in Tikal's forests. The study also highlighted the unique prey specialization and hunting adaptations of Neotropical raptors, contrasting them with temperate-climate counterparts. With tropical deforestation rates exceeding 3% annually in Guatemala, this comprehensive data set is invaluable for conservation efforts, ensuring the preservation of these elusive birds of prey.

Olsen, P. (2013). Researching Raptors among the Ruins. BioScience, 63(8), 683–684. https://doi.org/10.1525/bio.2013.63.8.11