Habitat
coastal dunes, plains and high mountain slopes
Distribution
South, central and western Spain
Status
CITES Appendix 1
Population
160 breeding pairs
Threats
Reafforestation replacing natural forest, hydro-electrical and agricultural
development programs are destroying habitat
Conservation
The older nestling always kills younger nestlings, so that a pair normally
raises only one fledgling. In 1972 a project was started whereby the youngest
nestlings are removed from the nests and, after they reach fledgling stage,
placed with foster parents. These are generally raised successfully, and
the overall population is slowly increasing.
In 1992, a captive breeding programme began, and a new nature reserve has
been established in Carceres province by the Spanish provision of artificial
nest sites. Population monitoring, education and law enforcement about hunting
are needed.
Size
80 cm; wingspan 2 m
Weight
Female 3kg, Male about 2.5 kg
Special features
The only European raptor regarded as 'Endangered' by IUCN
File last modified Thursday, October 3, 1996