Avian Predators in Rangelands

Abstract

AbstractManagement of avian predators in western rangelands is uniquely challenging due to differences in managing for/against particular species, management of sensitive prey species, long-standing human/wildlife conflicts, and the unique legal protections within this ecological group. In general, many avian predator species considered rangeland specialists have been declining due to habitat loss, fragmentation, human sensitivity, and direct persecution. Conversely, avian predators that are more human-tolerant and/or are subsidized by human activities are significantly increasing across rangelands. The complicated nature of inter- and intra-species guilds, coupled with human dynamics has created a challenging scenario for both management for avian predators, as well as their prey. Human-mediated population control, both legal and illegal, continues for avian predators to reduce livestock conflict, aid sensitive prey populations, and/or because of general predator persecution. Conversion of rangeland to development for energy, cultivation, and urbanization remains the largest impediment to maintaining viable, historical assemblages of avian predators. Large-scale habitat protections, reduction of invasive plants, and reducing wildfire will continue to enhance at-risk populations of predators and their prey. Further, mediating human-induced mortality risks will also aid at-risk predator populations, such as reducing direct killing (poisoning and shooting), secondary poisoning from varmint control and lead ammunition use, electrocutions, and vehicle strikes, while reducing anthropogenic subsidies can help curtail population expansion of corvids. Additional understanding of long-term, successful predator control efforts for corvids and mitigation options for declining raptors is needed to help balance the avian predator–prey dynamic in western rangelands.