Threats to Birds of Prey
Human Conflict
Munir Virani
Our experience has shown that intensive education efforts can build pride and reduce persecution of endangered birds of prey.
In Panama, our staff visited classrooms and villages in areas close to Harpy Eagle habitat to explain the benefits of this forest raptor, launched a festival to celebrate the Harpy Eagle, and helped make it Panama’s national bird. In Dominican Republic, we partnered with the Hispaniola Ornithological Society to develop an entertaining play that was performed in rural areas to explain that the Ridgway’s Hawk is a helpful predator of snakes and rodents, not chickens. In the Philippines, we support outreach and education efforts by the Philippine Eagle Foundation.
Such measures with local partners are crucial to preventing the shooting of birds of prey.