The majestic eagle is not only the heraldic animal of our country, as “king of the sky” it is also at the top of its food chain. In Central Europe, however, the main cause of death for birds of prey is still the persecution of humans. Even highly protected and endangered species such as the imperial eagle or the red kite are regularly shot or poisoned.
According to the bird protection organization BirdLife Austria, 34 imperial eagle pairs are breeding in Austria this season. However, the broods were abandoned much more often than in previous years, so that only 48 fledglings fledged. At least three people have died among the majestic griffins since the beginning of the year: the record-breaking eagle “Artemisia” was shot in Zurndorf (Burgenland) in May and had to be put to sleep.
A second Imperial Eagle was found dead earlier this year near Orth an der Donau (Lower Austria). This year’s youngster was rescued from Burgenland last week and also had to be put to sleep. The causes have not yet been elucidated.
Any loss threatens the filigree population of the highly protected Imperial Eagle.
Poor growing conditions
“We are delighted to continue to consolidate our small but fine population of Imperial Eagles. There was a further densification of the deposit and a slight expansion to the west. However, during our work we found that more broods were left this year than in previous years,” reports Matthias Schmidt, bird of prey expert at BirdLife Austria, explaining: “This particularly affects broods in open agricultural landscapes, where disturbances are more common than in the open air. bunch.”
The relatively cold April may have contributed to fewer young eagles hatching. Thus, ongoing conservation efforts are required for the Imperial Eagle.
Channel data for research
This summer BirdLife Austria equipped seven young Imperial Eagles with GPS transmitters. “The primary goal is to learn more about space use, lifestyle and causes of the endangering of the Imperial Eagle,” explains Schmidt, emphasizing: “The transmitter data also helps us intervene quickly. in the case of illegal persecution of birds of prey and thus increase the chances of finding the bird of prey, track down offenders!”
Report suspicious cases!
If you find injured or dead wildlife, poisoned bait, traps or the like, please contact Birdlife immediately! Only in this way can the experts intervene quickly and prevent other wild animals from being poisoned. Contact us (anonymously) by phone on +43 (0)660 869 2327 or by e-mail to [email protected]
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
