In the year 2000, the white-tailed eagle was still considered extinct in this country. Thanks to intensive conservation efforts, the population of the Austrian heraldic animal was able to recover. According to conservation organization WWF, 60 pairs have now returned home and each occupy a territory. The current breeding season is also going very well.
“A total of 50 pairs of territorial eagles have bred this year and fledged on average one fledgling,” said WWF species conservation expert Christian Pichler. The return of the previously extinct species is a good example of the effectiveness of conservation measures. “Such success stories are only possible if humans preserve and restore natural habitats and consistently protect animals from persecution,” says Pichler.
White-tailed eagles prefer lowland areas with plenty of water
The main breeding areas for white-tailed eagles are Lower Austria, Burgenland and Styria. According to the WWF, Upper Austria is also home to parental couples again. The birds of prey feel especially at home in low-lying areas with a lot of water. Intact and calm natural landscapes would provide the best conditions for the shy animals.
Most young birds that have flown have already left the vicinity of their nest. In the future, they will explore Austria and the surrounding countries. When they are four to five years old, they usually return to their parents’ nest to reproduce.
Humans are the biggest threat to bald eagles
The white-tailed eagle’s raids can be dangerous, especially illegal shootings and poisonings endanger the animals. This is according to the WWF’s latest report on wildlife crime. In addition, collisions with wind turbines would become increasingly common.
Young animals are given trackers
To better understand the reality of the life of the young eagles, the WWF attaches tracking transmitters to the animals every year. In collaboration with the National Park Donau-Auen and Pannatura, four animals were equipped with light telemetry backpacks this year. “In this way, we receive valuable data on habitat, mating behavior, resting and wintering sites,” Pichler said.
Source: Krone
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