BOISE, Idaho – Research papers presented at a recent conference on the effect of climate change on Gyrfalcons, ptarmigan, and other arctic wildlife are now available online.

More than 150 scientists, students, managers, and other conservationists attended the conference, “Gyrfalcons and Ptarmigan in a Changing World,” at Boise State University, Feb. 1-3, 2011. Participants from Canada, Iceland, Scandinavia, Russia, the United States, and other nations gathered to share their findings and determine what knowledge gaps remain on this complex topic.

The proceedings consist of 73 research papers and related charts and graphs. Articles may be downloaded for non-commercial purposes at: 
http://www.peregrinefund.org/subsites/conference-gyr/proceedings/index.html

“We are pleased to make this information available at no charge to anyone interested in how climate change could affect species that are adapted to the cold, harsh conditions of the Arctic region,” said co-editor Rick Watson, vice president of The Peregrine Fund. “Armed with good science, we may be able to identify specific steps that would help preserve the Gyrfalcon, its prey, and many other species.”

The Gyrfalcon – one of the largest of all falcons – is currently not endangered but scientists predict major declines over the next 90 years, Watson said. Climate change could affect the birds’ ability to forage and reproduce.

The conference was convened by The Peregrine Fund, Boise State University, and the U.S. Geological Survey. Sponsors included the Environmental Agency-Abu Dhabi, Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, Trust for Mutual Understanding, National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The proceedings also may be obtained through the conference website at:
http://www.peregrinefund.org/projects/gyrfalcon-ptarmigan-conf

The proceedings will be available as a printed book, with ordering information and prices to be announced in February.

For more information, contact:

Erin Katzner
Director of Global Engagement
Main Phone:     208-362-3716
Direct Phone:     208-362-8277