Steppe Eagle in the Altai-Sayan Region – research results 2019–2023

Steppe Eagles (Aquila nipalensis) in the Altai-Sayan Ecoregion exhibit high philopatry, with most returning to natal regions by sexual maturity and occupying areas within 50 km of their birth nests. However, breeding pairs often dissolve due to mortality, primarily from poisoning outside their breeding range, with a notable decline in Khakassia (3.16% decrease between 2018–2022) and stabilization in Tyva at 305–410 pairs. While the species shows dietary flexibility, relying on roadkill and colonial burrowing rodents, threats like anticoagulant poisoning, avian botulism, and human activities (e.g., deratization, shooting) persist. The study highlights the need for further research into chemical contamination and wintering ground mortality to mitigate population declines.

Karyakin, I. V., Nikolenko, E. G., Shnayder, E. P.,. (2023). Steppe Eagle in the Altai-Sayan Region – research results 2019–2023. Raptors Conservation, (2), 233–241. https://doi.org/10.19074/1814-8654-2023-2-233-241