3 falcon projects tasks12/3/2023 ![]() Two visits were made to the wetlands during this field work. All observed species were recorded and photographed. ![]() This field visit also provided the opportunity to see the Al Ansab wetlands, which are being managed by Haya Water, to observe other species of birds. During nest visits, all nestling were processed (weighed, ringed and a blood sample was taken for pollutant and DNA analyses). ![]() Some accessible nests on the island were surveyed and the number of flying birds counted. We fitted five small backpack solar PTT (platform transmitter terminal=satellite tags) weighing 9.5 grams to young Sooty Falcons reared on Fahal Island. Field work on Fahal Island was conducted from 5:30-11 a.m. Proper fitting of satellite tags is important to ensure that the tag does not interfere with normal movement and behaviour. From the island’s summit, 400 metres high, one has good views of falcons hunting and returning with prey. Access to the island is restricted and permission to land must be sought with the Royal Oman Police. Its steep limestone structure and poor landing opportunities makes access very difficult but provides good nesting opportunities for Sooty Falcon. Fahal Island is a spectacular limestone island which despite its small size holds a high concentration of nesting Sooty Falcons. It was conducted by two Malagasy biologists from The Peregrine Fund’s Madagascar Project, five Omani biologists from the OCE, and Dr. The initial project implementation focused on a field visit in Oman by two Malagasy biologists, and this has been completed.įield work was carried out in Fahal Island (Oman) between 27 September 2013 and 9 October 2013. The information will be used to support the drafting of a conservation action plan and to develop a clear picture of the birds’ year-round ecological needs. The partnership study aims to collect information both in the breeding and non-breeding period and by so doing link researchers in both areas. The Coordinating Unit of the Raptors MOU has established a Working Group and is overseeing the development of an International Single Species Action Plan for the Sooty Falcon. The Sooty Falcon is listed in Category I (Globally Threatened and Near Threatened species) of the CMS Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia (Raptors MOU). The Sooty Falcon feeds mainly on small birds during the breeding season, while aerial insects are important prey during their winter in Madagascar. The breeding season starts in late July, and in November the migration period begins. Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt are important breeding areas. This migratory species breeds solely in the Middle East and northeastern Africa, and winters mainly in Madagascar with some going to south-east Africa. Despite Madagascar being the main non-breeding wintering area, no studies have been conducted on this species there. There is confusion with other kestrel species when the bird is in flight many people do not know that it is migratory, and those that do know lack knowledge on where it breeds and when it arrives in and departs from Madagascar. In Madagascar, the investigation showed that the level of knowledge about Sooty Falcons among the Malagasy people is extremely low. The Office for Conservation of the Environment (OCE) is studying this species by conducting two annual surveys, satellite tracking, pollutant analysis, DNA analysis, diet analysis and behavioural studies to add to the data deficiency of this falcon. The Sooty Falcon’s conservation status was recently downgraded by IUCN to “Near Threatened” in 2008. ![]() Preliminary analyses suggest that there has been a drop of about 15 per cent in the Omani population between 19. The ecology of this species is poorly known and Omani biologists believed that Oman holds 15 per cent of the global breeding population. The adult is entirely mid-grey with darker primaries and tail-tip, whereas the head of an immature is dark brown with a broad moustachial stripe and the underparts are pale ochre-brown with heavy blackish streaking. The Sooty Falcon Falco concolor is a medium-sized falcon with an elegant, slender silhouette, and the plumage varies with age. Overseas Territories/Autonomous Regions & Reservations.Review Mechanism & National Legislation Programme.Contribution from Parties to the CMS Trust Fund.
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