AFRICAN RAPTOR (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Env and Eco)

Context: Raptors in Africa have experienced a widespread decline of about 88% in the past 40 years, a new study revealed.

oThe researchers studying 27 species in multiple regions of Africa found that 24 of them (89%) exceeded the decline threshold.

African Raptor

• About: A raptor is a bird of prey, that primarily hunt and feed on mammals, reptiles, amphibians, insects, rodents as well as other birds.
• Characteristics: A hooked beak, strong feet with sharp talons, excellent eyesight, and a carnivorous diet are all characteristics of raptors.
• Threat: Use Diclofenac, which is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. Deforestation, Shooting and Poisoning, and Habitat Loss and Degradation.
• Significance

oRaptors eat a wide variety of vertebrates, making long-distance seed dissemination easier. This boosts seed yield and pest control indirectly.

oPredators at the top of the food chain are known as indicator species because threats have the most dramatic impact on top predators.