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We document 26 incidents of sunning behavior in 5 species of Accipitridae, including Crested Eagle (Morphnus guianensis), Black Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus tyrannus), Ornate Hawk-Eagle (Spizaetus ornatus), Roadside Hawk (Rupornis magnirostris), and White Hawk (Pseudastur albicollis), during a camera-trap survey conducted in Madre de Dios, Peru, in 2014. The sunning behavior was observed in forest clearings along logging trails and on a dirt road. We recorded 2 high-intensity sunning postures: "full-spreadeagle," in which the bird lies horizontally on the ground with wings outstretched, tail fanned, and head somewhat raised; and "full-spread," in which the bird stands while holding its wings out at right angles to the body. Sunning is a maintenance behavior observed in many bird species and has been reported in Accipitriformes in various habitats, but it is not commonly observed in tropical rainforests because of low visibility. Our camera traps recorded sunning behavior from 0931 h to 1400 h, a period in which ambient temperature increased until reaching its maximum around 1400 h. The most likely function of sunning in Accipitriformes in the rainforest is an anti-ectoparasite strategy. Camera-trap monitoring has been useful in detecting unusual interactions and diel patterns of activity, and researchers can obtain a wide range of natural history, ecological, and behavioral insights that would be difficult to obtain using traditional methods. We recommend analyzing "bycatch" data from camera traps to recover information about bird behaviors that would otherwise be unattainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, data presented of birds of prey (Accipitriformes, Falconiformes) specimens deposited in the collection of the Šariš Museum in Bardejov (SMB), Slovakia. The work builds on previous studies highlighting the importance of the SMB museum collections, but also the importance of the museum on a global scale. In total, data of 437 individuals belonging to 22 species from 86 sites in eastern Slovakia were evaluated. Individuals were acquired in 1954–1985 (and two specimens of Buteo buteo in 1998), but mainly in 1962 (n = 63, 14.4%) and 1963 (n = 32, 7.3%). Moreover, one specimen of the Common Buzzard (B. buteo) had signs of „a dilution (isabel)" and one bird of the Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus) had signs of „melanism". The importance of the work also includes cataloguing, which provides important data on regional museums and their collections that can be significant not only regionally but also globally. Moreover, in the SMB collections there are also 20 specimens of 15 species of exotic Accipitriformes and Falconiformes [1 ex. – Accipiter striatus; 1 ex. – Buteo buteo; 1 ex. – B. ventralis; 1 ex. – Buteogallus gundlachii; 1 ex. – B. meridionalis; 1 ex. – Caracara plancus; 1 ex. – Elanoides forficatus; 5 ex. – Falco sparverius; 1 ex. – Geranoaetus polyosoma; 1 ex. – Gyps africanus; 1 ex. – Haliaeetus albicilla; 2 ex. – Ictinia plumbea; 1 ex. – Pandion haliaetus; 1 ex. – Rupornis magnirostris; 1 ex. – Vultur gryphus] originating mainly from Argentina and Cuba as well from Africa and Hungary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The Harpy Eagle (Harpia harpyja) is an iconic species that inhabits forested landscapes in Neotropical regions, with decreasing population trends mainly due to habitat loss, and currently classified as vulnerable. Here, we report on a chromosome-scale genome assembly for a female individual combining long reads, optical mapping, and chromatin conformation capture reads. The final assembly spans 1.35 Gb, with N50scaffold equal to 58.1 Mb and BUSCO completeness of 99.7%. We built the first extensive transposable element (TE) library for the Accipitridae to date and identified 7,228 intact TEs. We found a burst of an unknown TE ~ 13–22 million years ago (MYA), coincident with the split of the Harpy Eagle from other Harpiinae eagles. We also report a burst of solo-LTRs and CR1 retrotransposons ~ 31–33 MYA, overlapping with the split of the ancestor to all Harpiinae from other Accipitridae subfamilies. Comparative genomics with other Accipitridae, the closely related Cathartidae and Galloanserae revealed major chromosome-level rearrangements at the basal Accipitriformes genome, in contrast to a conserved ancient genome architecture for the latter two groups. A historical demography reconstruction showed a rapid decline in effective population size over the last 20,000 years. This reference genome serves as a crucial resource for future conservation efforts towards the Harpy Eagle.

The hindlimbs of Accipitriformes are vital for capturing prey. Research on hindlimb musculature has primarily focused on species preferring avian and mammalian prey, whereas piscivorous species have received limited attention. This study aims to investigate the quantitative characteristics of hindlimb muscles in two piscivorous Accipitriformes, Pandion haliaetus and Haliaeetus albicilla, to discern potential muscular features associated with their specific food preference. The mass and proportion of all hindlimb muscles in both species were assessed based on their primary function (flexion or extension). A Kruskal‐Wallis test was employed to analyze possible differences in muscle mass between species. The allometric relationships between the muscles and body mass were explored with the reduced major axis method. Additionally, a study on the architectural parameters of the primary gripping muscles in P. haliaetus was conducted, using published information from other raptorial birds for comparison. The isometric scaling relationship predominated in the majority of individual muscles helping maintain a proportional relationship relative to body mass. Both species exhibited a similar pattern in terms of quantitative muscle features, implying a preservation of muscle characteristics linked to their predatory capabilities. The largest proportion of hindlimb muscle mass was dedicated to digit flexion in accordance with the grasping abilities of birds of prey. The muscles tibialis cranialis, flexor digitorum longus and flexor hallucis longus exhibited the greatest mass, high physiological cross‐sectional area values, and long fibre, categorizing them as high‐power specialists. These muscles are crucial in the flexion movements that produce the gripping action that characterizes birds of prey. Although no statistically significant differences were detected, each species displayed slightly distinct muscular characteristics, particularly in the architectural properties of the flexor muscles controlling digits II, III, and IV. These variations seem to be associated with differences in their prey preferences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The goal of this work was to increase the knowledge of the parasitic helminths of the Crane hawk, Geranospiza caerulescens. Methods: Two specimens of the Crane hawk were captured in Formosa province, Argentina, their viscera were preserved in 10% formalin and examined in the laboratory. Results: Helminthological analysis revealed the presence of six helminth taxa (one Trematoda, four Nematoda, and one Acanthocephala). The morphometric study of these helminths and its comparison with previous reports, allowed us to describe a new species of Parastrigea (Digenea: Strigeidae) and report new host-parasite associations and geographical records. Parastrigea labiata n. sp. is mainly characterized by having forebody not divided and two long trumpet-shaped projections of dorsal lip, which emerge through the opening. Five taxa, previously known, Synhimantus (Dispharynx) resticula, Synhimantus (Synhimantus) rectus, Microtetrameres sp., Porrocaecum sp. and Centrorhynchus sp. are briefly described. Conclusions: Previous parasitological studies on G. caerulescens were carried out on material collected between 1817 and 1955, and seven species of helminths were reported. In this study, the six taxa of helminths found constitute new host records, which shows the importance of contemporary studies about this host. All helminths found have heteroxenous life cycles and birds are infected by trophic transmission. Crane hawk's diet includes small vertebrates and to a lesser extent large arthropods. The finding of five helminth species that use invertebrates as intermediate hosts could indicate an important consumption of invertebrates. This research expands the helminthological inventory of Argentinean birds and the knowledge of the helminths of G. caerulescens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

En México, el milano tijereta (Elanoides forficatus) se encuentra principalmente en la vertiente del Atlántico y en la península de Yucatán durante sus movimientos migratorios, por lo que su avistamiento fuera de estas áreas es inusual. En esta nota, presento el primer registro de la especie en el estado de Guanajuato, México. La observación tuvo lugar el 28 de septiembre del 2023 en el área natural protegida Presa La Purísima y su Zona de Influencia, ubicada en la capital del estado. El ave fue avistada cerca de la vegetación típica de la selva baja caducifolia, a escasos metros del cuerpo de agua. Este registro destaca la importancia de los humedales en el centro del país, tanto para las aves residentes como para las migratorias y las vagabundas.

In Mexico, the Swallow-tailed Kite (Elanoides forficatus) is primarily found along the Atlantic coast and in the Yucatan Peninsula during its migratory movements, making sightings outside of these areas unusual. In this short communication, I present the first record of the species in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. The observation took place on 28 September 2023, in the protected area of Presa La Purísima and its area of influence, located in the state capital. The bird was sighted near vegetation typical of the tropical dry forest, just a few meters from the body of water. This record highlights the importance of wetlands in the central region of the country, both for resident birds and for migratory and vagrant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little information exists on the diet of the Common Black Hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus) in Mexico. We provide the first documented observation of predation on a crab by the Common Black Hawk in a mangrove swamp on the coast of Oaxaca, Mexico. On 24 April 2023, at 09:00 h, we observed a Common Black Hawk fly out of the mangrove swamp with a crab between both feet. We observed for 15 mins while the hawk consumed the crab on a post. We identified the Blue Land Crab (Cardisoma crassum) by the characteristic blue color of the shell, and orange claws and belly. Our observation contributes to knowledge of the diet of the Common Black Hawk and its consumption of a crab species that bioaccumulates metals and metalloids. This opens the possibility of conducting research to assess the risk of transfer and bioaccumulation from prey to predator that could compromise the conservation status of this raptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In nucleotide public repositories, studies discovered data errors which resulted in incorrect species identification of several accipitrid raptors considered for conservation. Mislabeling, particularly in cases of cryptic species complexes and closely related species, which were identified based on morphological characteristics, was discovered. Prioritizing accurate species labeling, morphological taxonomy, and voucher documentation is crucial to rectify spurious data. Objective: Our study aimed to identify an effective DNA barcoding tool that accurately reflects the efficiency status of barcodes in raptor species (Accipitridae). Methods: Barcode sequences, including 889 sequences from the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) gene and 1052 sequences from cytochrome b (Cytb), from 150 raptor species within the Accipitridae family were analyzed. Results: The highest percentage of intraspecific nearest neighbors from the nearest neighbor test was 88.05% for COI and 95.00% for Cytb, suggesting that the Cytb gene is a more suitable marker for accurately identifying raptor species and can serve as a standard region for DNA barcoding. In both datasets, a positive barcoding gap representing the difference between inter-and intra-specific sequence divergences was observed. For COI and Cytb, the cut-off score sequence divergences for species identification were 4.00% and 3.00%, respectively. Conclusion: Greater accuracy was demonstrated for the Cytb gene, making it the preferred primary DNA barcoding marker for raptors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the species diversity of diurnal raptors along the selected linear infrastructure projects in northern Chhattisgarh, India, between December 2020 and September 2022. The study identified a total of 14 raptor species, consisting of 11 species in Accipitridae, two in Falconidae, and one in Pandionidae families. Two species were under threatened category of the IUCN red list, the Vulnerable Indian Spotted Eagle (Clanga hastata) and the Near Threatened Pallid Harrier (Circus macrourus). Linear infrastructure development, such as roads, railways, pipelines, canals, and power lines, is expanding rapidly, causing the degradation and fragmentation of habitats, and leading to the loss of biodiversity. Unfortunately, the impacts of linear infrastructure on bird populations in India have not been adequately studied, resulting in limited understanding and few measures to mitigate these impacts. This study specifically focuses on the status of raptors along selected linear infrastructure intrusions and provides baseline information that can help in understanding their conservation needs. The findings of this study underline the necessity of implementing appropriate measures to mitigate the negative effects of linear infrastructure development in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Facultative kleptoparasites face the risk of trying to steal food resources from competitors. This type of interaction is little known, but anecdotal observations indicate that birds of prey may take advantage of their accurate sight to detect the best opportunities for kleptoparasitism. We recorded a camera trap video of an attempt of kleptoparasitism by the white hawk, Pseudastur albicollis, that tried to steal food from a greater grison, Galictis vittata, in a recently selectively-logged forest site in central Brazilian Amazonia. The attempt was unsuccessful as the greater grison responded aggressively to the attack. The event occurred in a linear clearing, which may have increased the bird’s ability to detect its potential host. Kleptoparasitic interactions are difficult to detect in forest environments. Recording opportunistic kleptoparasitic interactions in tropical forests may not only depend on the increasing use of camera traps, but also on habitat conditions that facilitate the detection of potential hosts.

El Águila Real (Aquila chrysaetos) es una rapaz amenazada a nivel nacional, que se distribuye desde el norte del país hasta el centro de México. Sin embargo, existen escasos reportes de su presencia dentro del rango de distribución en México, como es el caso para Coahuila. Hicimos observaciones en campo en la región sureste de Coahuila durante el periodo de 2017 al 2023, complementada con una revisión de los registros de monitoreo en campo en diferentes bases de datos. Con estos registros, generamos una modelación de idoneidad ambiental para Aquila chrysaetos utilizando el algoritmo MaxEnt para identificar zonas prioritarias para la conservación que no se encuentran dentro de un área natural protegida. Los registros encontrados de individuos de A. chrysaetos evidenciaron en gran medida que la mayor probabilidad de ocurrencia se encuentra en la parte noroeste y sureste de Coahuila en zonas de matorral desértico y pastizal natural. El modelo de idoneidad climática indicó que las zonas prioritarias para conservación se ubicaron adyacentes a las áreas naturales como Maderas del Carmen, Sierra de Arteaga, Sierra de Zapalinamé, Ocampo y Don Martín. Nuestra modelación de la idoneidad climática para A. chrysaetos nos permitió identificar zonas prioritarias para la conservación que no se encuentran dentro de un área natural protegida, lo que implica que estas zonas idóneas para que habite A. chrysaetos sean consideradas prioritarias para la conservación de la especie.

Existe poca información sobre la dieta del aguililla negra menor (Buteogallus anthracinus) en México. Presentamos la primera observación documentada de depredación sobre un cangrejo por el aguililla negra menor en un manglar en la costa de Oaxaca, México. El día 24 de abril de 2023, a las 09:00 h, observamos a un aguililla negra menor salir en vuelo desde el manglar con un cangrejo entre ambas patas. Durante 15 mins observamos como el aguililla consumió al cangrejo sobre un poste. Identificamos al cangrejo azul (Cardisoma crassum) por la característica coloración azul del caparazón, así como sus quelíceros y vientre anaranjados. Nuestra observación contribuye al conocimiento sobre la dieta del aguililla negra menor y su consumo de una especie de cangrejo bioacumuladora de metales y metaloides. Esto abre la posibilidad de realizar investigaciones dirigidas a evaluar el riesgo de transferencia y bioacumulación desde la presa al depredador que pudiera comprometer el estado de conservación de esta ave rapaz.

En el noreste de México, el gavilán pico de gancho (Chondrohierax uncinatus) se limita a las estribaciones de la Sierra Madre Oriental, en Tamaulipas y Nuevo León. El 28 de febrero de 2021, fotografiamos una hembra de gavilán pico de gancho en vuelo circular sobre un sitio de bosque de coníferas a más de 2,600 msnm, cercano a Los Lirios, municipio de Arteaga en Coahuila. Esto representa el primer registro documentado del gavilán pico de gancho en el estado de Coahuila, México. Hipotetizamos que la riqueza y abundancia de caracoles terrestres nativos y el incremento en la abundancia de caracoles invasores en la Sierra Madre Oriental expliquen la presencia del gavilán pico de gancho en la región, dada que estos moluscos son su alimento principal. Futuros monitoreos son necesarios para confirmar la residencia de esta especie rapaz y la extensión de su distribución en el noreste de México.

The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is widely distributed in the northern Hemisphere and is thus an ideal candidate to explore large-scale biogeographic patterns. In recent years, Golden Eagle population genetics has gained considerable attention. However, the Eastern Palearctic region, a numerical stronghold for the species, is one of the least genetically studied regions within its geographic range. In West Mongolia, the Altai (Altay) Kazakhs collect wild Golden Eagle nestlings from eyries or trap juveniles and subadults on passage during seasonal movement and migration for traditional hunting, providing easy access for researchers to sample falconry eagles for population genetic analyses. We analyzed a 402-bp fragment of the mitochondrial control region and 14 nuclear microsatellite loci in combination with previously published genetic data to assess phylogeographic patterns, levels of genetic diversity, and fine-scale structuring of the Golden Eagle population within the Mongol-Altai Mountains. Golden Eagles in the Mongol-Altai Mountains exhibited overall high levels of genetic diversity. Mitochondrial DNA data across the species' geographic range reveal various stages of differentiation within the Holarctic clade: whereas divergence between the Western and Eastern Palearctic is relatively shallow, the Eastern Palearctic and Nearctic show a deeper divergence, although these geographic regions have not yet reached reciprocal monophyly. These patterns might reflect past climatic oscillations: Northern Europe may have been recolonized by Golden Eagles from the Eastern Palearctic region, and continental populations might still be connected by long-distance dispersers, but the Eastern Palearctic and Nearctic were likely connected via Beringia during the Quaternary and are today largely isolated from each other. Aquila chrysaetos es una especie ampliamente distribuida en el Hemisferio Norte y, por lo tanto, es una candidata ideal para explorar patrones biogeográficos a gran escala. En los últimos años, la genética poblacional de A. chrysaetos ha recibido una considerable atención. Sin embargo, la región Paleártica oriental, un bastión numéricamente importante para la especie, es una de las regiones menos estudiadas en relación a la genética de la especie dentro de su área de distribución geográfica. En el oeste de Mongolia, los kazajos de Altai (Altay) recolectan polluelos silvestres de A. chrysaetos de los nidos o atrapan juveniles y subadultos en tránsito durante el movimiento estacional y la migración para usarlos en las prácticas de caza tradicional, lo que proporciona fácil acceso a los investigadores para tomar muestras de águilas de cetrería para análisis genéticos poblacionales. Analizamos un fragmento de 402 pares de bases de la región de control mitocondrial y 14 loci de microsatélites nucleares en combinación con datos genéticos publicados previamente para evaluar patrones filogeográficos, niveles de diversidad genética y estructuración a escala fina de la población de A. chrysaetos dentro de las montañas Mongol-Altai. Los individuos de A. chrysaetos en las montañas Mongol-Altai exhibieron altos niveles generales de diversidad genética. Los datos de ADN mitocondrial a lo largo del área de distribución de la especie muestran varias etapas de diferenciación dentro del clado holártico: mientras que la divergencia entre el Paleártico occidental y oriental es relativamente superficial, el Paleártico oriental y el Neártico muestran una divergencia más profunda, si bien estas regiones geográficas aún no han alcanzado una monofilia recíproca. Estos patrones de diversidad genética podrían reflejar oscilaciones climáticas pasadas: el norte de Europa puede haber sido recolonizado por individuos de A. chrysaetos de la región del Paleártico oriental y las poblaciones continentales aún pueden estar conectadas por individuos dispersantes de larga distancia, pero el Paleártico oriental y el Neártico probablemente estaban conectados a través del puente terrestre de Beringia durante el Cuaternario, estando hoy en día aislados unos de otros. [Traducción del equipo editorial] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is a nationally threatened raptor, which is distributed from the north of the country to central Mexico. However, there are few reports of its presence within the distribution range in Mexico, as is the case for Coahuila. We carried out field observations in southeastern Coahuila during the period from 2017 to 2023, complemented by a review of field monitoring records in different databases. With these records, we generated environmental suitability modeling for the Golden Eagle using the MaxEnt algorithm to identify priority areas for conservation that are not located within a protected area. Monitoring records of the Golden Eagle largely demonstrated that the highest probability of occurrence is found in the northwest and southeast portion of Coahuila in areas of desert scrub and natural grassland. The climate suitability model indicated that priority areas for conservation are located adjacent to protected areas such as Maderas del Carmen, Sierra de Arteaga, Sierra de Zapalinamé, Ocampo and Don Martín. Our modeling of climatic suitability for the Golden Eagle allowed us to identify priority areas for conservation that are not located within a natural protected area, which implies that these areas suitable for the Golden Eagle to inhabit should be considered priority areas for the species' conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In northeast Mexico, the Hook-billed Kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus) is limited to the foothills of the Sierra Madre Oriental, in Tamaulipas and Nuevo León. On 28 February 2021, we photographed a female Hook-billed Kite circling in flight over an area of coniferous forest at over 2,600 m asl, near the community of Los Lirios, municipality of Arteaga, Coahuila. This represents the first documented record of the Hook-billed Kite in Coahuila state, Mexico. We hypothesize that the richness and abundance of native land snails, and increased abundance of invasive snails in the Sierra Madre Oriental explain the presence of the Hook-billed Kite in the region, given that these mollusks are its principal food. Future monitoring is necessary to confirm residence of this raptor species, and extension of its distribution in northeast Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most apparent origins of biodiversity loss caused by humans is infrastructural development of roads. Yet they offer certain benefits for some animals, such as hunting opportunities with lower energy costs and consumption of carrion earlier hit by vehicles. Raptors find roads a particularly favorable environment, perching on poles or overhead cables and waiting to attack their prey as it crosses a road. This paper describes the first ever recorded predation by a roadside hawk (Rupornis magnirostris) of a striped snake (Lygophis anomalus) supportable by material evidence, when both the raptor and the snake were hit by a vehicle immediately after the snake was caught. The study contributes to knowledge about the roadside hawk’s diet and illuminates the problem these human infrastructures pose for animals. Future research on roads birds of prey use as hunting sites could contribute toward improvements in conservation programs for birds of prey species.

Simple Summary: This study explores the use of biometric analysis to identify the sex of Bonelli's eagles, a bird species with reverse sexual dimorphism where females are usually larger than males. By using linear discriminant analysis of biometric variables, we were able to obtain equations that accurately distinguished between male and female eagles, using just two measurements. The study included 137 Bonelli's eagles, 82 nestlings and 55 adults, sampled in eastern Spain from 2015 to 2022. The validation procedure reduced the number of variables used, increasing the accuracy of sexing and saving time. Results showed that the lateral tarsus length and dorso-ventral tarsus length measurements were the most effective in distinguishing between male and female eagles of all age classes, while other variables showed some overlap between sexes. This non-invasive method has multiple applications, including estimation of sex ratio for further studies on population dynamics and extinction risk assessments, which could contribute to the conservation of this endangered species. Biometric analysis allows the sexing of most vertebrates, particularly birds. Birds of prey, and, especially, the Bonelli's eagle (Aquila fasciata), show reverse sexual dimorphism (i.e., females are usually larger than males). In contrast to blood sampling, the use of morphometrics allows sex determination using a non-invasive method, and, therefore, it facilitates fieldwork. By means of a linear discriminant analysis of biometric variables, we obtained different equations that allow the sexing of nestlings and adult Bonelli's eagles. We sampled 137 Bonelli's eagles, 82 nestlings and 55 adults in eastern Spain during the period 2015–2022. The sexes obtained after linear discriminant analysis were compared with their molecular sexing. The validation procedure of the linear discriminant equations facilitated the reduction of the number of variables used and, consequently, optimised working time and sexing accuracy. After validation, some equations showed a 100% sexing efficiency for Bonelli's eagles, particularly for adults. Our results showed that the variables with smaller overlap between the sexes were the lateral tarsus length and dorso-ventral tarsus length, particularly in nestlings. The rest of the variables showed some overlap between the sexes in both age classes. The results we obtained enable the sexing of juvenile and adult Bonelli's eagles in the field using just these two measurements. Hence, this is an easy, accurate, quick and non-invasive method with multiple applications, including in studies on population dynamics, survival analysis or extinction risk assessments, which, ultimately, could contribute to the improvement of the conservation status of this endangered species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Avian haemosporidian parasites (order Haemosporida, phylum Apicomplexa) are blood and tissue parasites transmitted by blood-sucking dipteran insects. Three genera (Plasmodium, Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon) have been most often found in birds, with over 270 species described and named in avian hosts based mainly on the morphological characters of blood stages. A broad diversity of Haemoproteus parasites remains to be identified and characterized morphologically and molecularly, especially those infecting birds of prey, an underrepresented bird group in haemosporidian parasite studies. The aim of this study was to investigate and identify Haemoproteus parasites from a large sample comprising accipitriform raptors of 16 species combining morphological and new molecular protocols targeting the cytb genes of this parasite group. This study provides morphological descriptions and molecular characterizations of two Haemoproteus species, H. multivacuolatus n. sp. and H. nisi Peirce and Marquiss, 1983. Haemoproteus parasites of this group were so far found in accipitriform raptors only and might be classified into a separate subgenus or even genus. Cytb sequences of these parasites diverge by more than 15% from those of all others known avian haemosporidian genera and form a unique phylogenetic clade. This study underlines the importance of developing new diagnostic tools to detect molecularly highly divergent parasites that might be undetectable by commonly used conventional tools.

A dead immature black-winged kite (Elanus caeruleus) was found at Trhové Sviny (48°50'51.6"N, 14°38'56.6"E, Czechia) on 4th April 2022. The autopsy showed it was a female, which was most probably electrocuted. The black-winged kite is a rare vagrant to Czechia. Until 2022 only ten records were approved by the Czech Rarities Committee. The mounted specimen of the bird was added to the vertebrate collection of the Museum of South Bohemia in České Budějovice. Additionally, some of the birds' tissue has been preserved for possible molecular analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of neurological disease associated with Sarcocystis calchasi have been observed in captive and free-ranging rock pigeons (Columba livia) in Europe and the United States as well as in wild Brandt's cormorants (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) and captive psittacines in California, USA. Experimental and field studies have identified northern goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) and European sparrowhawks (A. nisus) as definitive hosts in Europe while the definitive hosts elsewhere remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to identify the potential definitive host(s) of S. calchasi through molecular analysis of intestinal samples from seven predatory (n = 85) and one omnivorous (n = 11) bird species in California. In total, apicomplexan-generic 28S rRNA PCR products were obtained and sequenced for 42 raptors. Three of 16 (18.8%) Cooper's hawks (A. cooperii) and two of 26 (5.6%) red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) also tested positive for the S. calchasi-specific ITS1 PCR and sequencing of the 28S rRNA PCR product was 100% homologous to S. calchasi. In addition to S. calchasi (5.9%; 5/85), other Sarcocystis spp. detected in raptors included: S. jamaicensis (21.2%; 18/85), S. columbae (8.2%; 7/85), S. turdusi (7.1%; 6/85), and S. halieti (4.7; 4/85%). Infections with closely related S. jamaicensis and S. (Frenkelia) microti (9.4%; 8/85) could not be distinguished for eight raptors. Eumonospora henryae (1.2%; 1/85) was detected in one raptor. Our results indicate for the first time that S. calchasi may have a definitive host range in North America that includes at least two raptors, Cooper's hawks and red-tailed hawks, within the family Accipitridae.

This study focused on the bird's species richness and diversity in Okomu National Park, Nigeria. The studies was undertaken to derive information on the species of birds utilizing the Okomu National Park as well as determine the relative abundance and diversity of birds in area. The methodology employed in the study includes the use of direct method of census. Line transects was used. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics (tables). The result gathered revealed that the national park is rich in birds species. A total number of 706 birds' species in 23 families were also inventoried in all the ranges. The highest families Accipitridae, Alcedinidae, Bucerotidae, Muscicapidae, and Ploceidae has 3 represented species each, followed by families Meropidae, Nectariniidae, Picidae and Sturnidae having 2 represented species each. Birds were found in all the selected habitats. The park areas are under constant threat from unsustainable poaching, logging practices, and land conversion to agricultural uses. This logging and land use change have impacted Okomu National Park forests and the forest ability to withstand the effect or to become 'resilient' might be difficult due to the effects of climate change, and deforestation. Therefore there is need to include both the local indigenes and staff who knows the park area boundaries very well to be involved in the protection of the park resources. This will help in discouraging the killings of bird's species by local poachers and others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presentamos los primeros registros del gavilán pico de gancho (Chondrohierax uncinatus) para la rivera del lago de Cuitzeo en Michoacán. Observamos una pareja del gavilán pico de gancho en abril y septiembre de 2018, perchando en la misma arboleda de Prosopis laevigata (mezquites). En septiembre se observó a la hembra alimentándose del caracol invasivo Rumina decollata. Esto es notable ya que este caracol invasivo puede alcanzar densidades altas y es dañino para la biodiversidad ya que depreda otros gasterópodos y es plaga de cultivos. El registro del gavilán pico de gancho incrementó a trece las especies de rapaces diurnas registradas para el área de Cuitzeo. Considerando que es inusual observar casos en los que una especie invasiva es depredada por una especie nativa, debe verificarse esta interacción biótica en futuros estudios.

Biometric analysis allows the sexing of most vertebrates, particularly birds. Birds of prey, and, especially, the Bonelli’s eagle (Aquila fasciata), show reverse sexual dimorphism (i.e., females are usually larger than males). In contrast to blood sampling, the use of morphometrics allows sex determination using a non-invasive method, and, therefore, it facilitates fieldwork. By means of a linear discriminant analysis of biometric variables, we obtained different equations that allow the sexing of nestlings and adult Bonelli’s eagles. We sampled 137 Bonelli’s eagles, 82 nestlings and 55 adults in eastern Spain during the period 2015–2022. The sexes obtained after linear discriminant analysis were compared with their molecular sexing. The validation procedure of the linear discriminant equations facilitated the reduction of the number of variables used and, consequently, optimised working time and sexing accuracy. After validation, some equations showed a 100% sexing efficiency for Bonelli’s eagles, particularly for adults. Our results showed that the variables with smaller overlap between the sexes were the lateral tarsus length and dorso-ventral tarsus length, particularly in nestlings. The rest of the variables showed some overlap between the sexes in both age classes. The results we obtained enable the sexing of juvenile and adult Bonelli’s eagles in the field using just these two measurements. Hence, this is an easy, accurate, quick and non-invasive method with multiple applications, including in studies on population dynamics, survival analysis or extinction risk assessments, which, ultimately, could contribute to the improvement of the conservation status of this endangered species.

Outbreaks of neurological disease associated with Sarcocystis calchasi have been observed in captive and free-ranging rock pigeons (Columba livia) in Europe and the United States as well as in wild Brandt's cormorants (Phalacrocorax penicillatus) and captive psittacines in California, USA. Experimental and field studies have identified northern goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) and European sparrowhawks (A. nisus) as definitive hosts in Europe while the definitive hosts elsewhere remain unknown. In this study, we aimed to identify the potential definitive host(s) of S. calchasi through molecular analysis of intestinal samples from seven predatory (n = 85) and one omnivorous (n = 11) bird species in California. In total, apicomplexan-generic 28S rRNA PCR products were obtained and sequenced for 42 raptors. Three of 16 (18.8%) Cooper's hawks (A. cooperii) and two of 26 (5.6%) red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis) also tested positive for the S. calchasi -specific ITS1 PCR and sequencing of the 28S rRNA PCR product was 100% homologous to S. calchasi. In addition to S. calchasi (5.9%; 5/85), other Sarcocystis spp. detected in raptors included: S. jamaicensis (21.2%; 18/85), S. columbae (8.2%; 7/85), S. turdusi (7.1%; 6/85), and S. halieti (4.7; 4/85%). Infections with closely related S. jamaicensis and S. (Frenkelia) microti (9.4%; 8/85) could not be distinguished for eight raptors. Eumonospora henryae (1.2%; 1/85) was detected in one raptor. Our results indicate for the first time that S. calchasi may have a definitive host range in North America that includes at least two raptors, Cooper's hawks and red-tailed hawks, within the family Accipitridae. [Display omitted] • Cooper's hawks and red-tailed hawks likely definitive hosts for Sarcocystis calchasi. • Raptors may be infected with a diversity of closely related Sarcocystis spp. • More research needed to clarify life cycles for bird-infecting Sarcocystis spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores Although variation in microscopic plumulaceous (downy) feather characters is known to be useful in taxonomic identifications of birds, the conserved characters unique to most avian orders remain understudied. We examined plumulaceous feather characters (morphometric and observed pigmentation patterns [qualitative]) within three avian families (Cathartidae, Pandionidae, Accipitridae).

We present the first records of the Hook-billed Kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus) for the Cuitzeo lake in Michoacán. We observed a pair of Hook-billed Kites in April and September 2018, perched in the same woodlot of Prosopis laevigata (mezquite). In September the female was observed preying on the invasive Rumina decollata snail. This is noteworthy as this invasive snail can attain high densities and is harmful to biodiversity as it predates other gasteropods and is a crop pest. This record of the Hook-billed Kite raised to thirteen the number of diurnal raptor species recorded for the Cuitzeo area. Considering that it is unusual to observe cases in which an invasive species is predated by a native species, future studies should examine this biotic interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diets of raptors are some of the best studied and well-known of all bird groups. Raptors are typically carnivores, hunting and feeding on vertebrates and, for some species, invertebrates. Here, we described instances of the Black Kite (Milvus migrans) and Whistling Kite (Haliastur sphenurus) consuming non-native avocado (Persea americana) fruit in commercial orchards in northern Australia, over multiple years. This appears to be the first instance of frugivory by raptors in Australia. We review instances of frugivory for other raptor species globally. This review finds that 29 species of raptor from the families Falconidae, Accipitridae and Cathartidae have been recorded consuming fruit, significantly more than previous reviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This is the first study to describe the mitochondrial genome of the Himalayan Griffon, Gyps himalayensis, which is an Old World vulture belonging to the family Accipitridae and occurring along the Himalayas and the adjoining Tibetan Plateau. Its mitogenome is a closed circular molecule 17,381 bp in size containing 13 protein‐coding genes, 22 tRNA coding genes, two rRNA‐coding genes, a control region (CR), and an extra pseudo‐control region (CCR) that are conserved in most Accipitridae mitogenomes. The overall base composition of the G. himalayensis mitogenome is 24.55% A, 29.49% T, 31.59% C, and 14.37% G, which is typical for bird mitochondrial genomes. The alignment of the Accipitridae species control regions showed high levels of genetic variation and abundant AT content. At the 5′ end of the domain I region, a long continuous poly‐C sequence was found. Two tandem repeats were found in the pseudo‐control regions. Phylogenetic analysis with Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood based on 13 protein‐coding genes indicated that the relationships at the family level were (Falconidae + (Cathartidae + (Sagittariidae + (Accipitridae + Pandionidae))). In the Accipitridae clade, G. himalayensis is more closely related to Aegypius monachus than to Spilornis cheela. The complete mitogenome of G. himalayensis provides a potentially useful resource for further exploration of the taxonomic status and phylogenetic history of Gyps species.

We present new records of Gray-bellied Hawk, Accipiter poliogaster (Temminck, 1824), and Rufous-thighed Hawk, A. striatus erythronemius (Kaup, 1850), from northeastern Brazil and review the occurrence of these species in this region. While A. s. erythronemius occurs in secondary forests in the semi-arid regions of northeast Brazil, A. poliogaster seems to be associated more with mature and wet forests and not in the Caatinga scrub.

Abstract Background Bird species worldwide are affected by trichomoniasis caused by the protist Trichomonas gallinae. In avivorous raptors such as Cooper’s hawks (Accipiter cooperii), nestlings are more susceptible than fledglings and adults. Previous research suggested a link between oral pH and susceptibility: the oral pH of fledgling and adult hawks is more than seven times more acidic than that of nestlings. We speculated that this age-specific difference in pH would correspond to age-specific differences in the oral microbiota of Cooper’s hawks. We examined the oral microbiomes of 31 healthy, wild Cooper’s hawks in Tucson, Arizona (USA). Individuals represented three age classes (nestlings, fledglings, and adults). We designed our study with multiple controls, replicated sampling, mock communities, and stringent quality-controls to address challenges that can limit the inferential quality of microbiome data sets. Results Richness of bacterial communities in oral cavities of Cooper’s hawks differed as a function of age but not as a function of sex, sampling date, or sampling location. Bacterial communities in oral cavities of nestlings differed from those of fledglings and adults, whereas communities in fledglings and adults did not differ from each other. Communities were similar in males and females and did not differ over the sampling season. Prevalence of acid-producing bacteria in fledgling and adults vs. nestlings is consistent with previous reports of age-specific variation in oral pH, but further research is needed to establish a causal link to pH levels or susceptibility to disease. Analyses of mock communities demonstrated high repeatability and showed that operon number and read abundance were highly correlated. Conclusions The oral microbiota of wild Cooper’s hawks differs between nestlings and older birds. Variation in the oral microbiome is consistent with differences in oral pH between nestlings and older individuals. Overall our study provides a first perspective on bacterial communities associated with oral cavities of a wild raptor.

Three species of Old World vultures on the Asian peninsula are slowly recovering from the lethal consequences of diclofenac. At present the reason for species sensitivity to diclofenac is unknown. Furthermore, it has since been demonstrated that other Old World vultures like the Cape (Gyps coprotheres; CGV) and griffon (G. fulvus) vultures are also susceptible to diclofenac toxicity. Oddly, the New World Turkey vulture (Cathartes aura) and pied crow (Corvus albus) are not susceptible to diclofenac toxicity. As a result of the latter, we postulate an evolutionary link to toxicity. As a first step in understanding the susceptibility to diclofenac toxicity, we use the CGV as a model species for phylogenetic evaluations, by comparing the relatedness of various raptor species known to be susceptible, non-susceptible and suspected by their relationship to the Cape vulture mitogenome. This was achieved by next generation sequencing and assembly. The Cape vulture mitogenome had a genome size of 16,908 bp. The mitogenome phylogenetic analysis indicated a close evolutionary relationship between Old World vultures and other members of the Accipitridae as indicated by bootstrap value of 100% on the phylogenetic trees. Based on this, we postulate that the other species could also be sensitive to the toxic effects of diclofenac. This warrants further investigations.

We report a small hawk-like diurnal bird from the early Oligocene (30–31 million years ago) of Poland. Aviraptor longicrus, n. gen. et sp. is of a size comparable with the smallest extant Accipitridae. The new species is characterized by very long legs, which, together with the small size, suggest an avivorous (bird-eating) feeding behavior. Overall, the new species resembles extant sparrowhawks (Accipiter spp.) in the length proportions of the major limb bones, even though some features indicate that it convergently acquired an Accipiter-like morphology. Most specialized avivores amongst extant accipitrids belong to the taxon Accipiter and predominantly predate small forest passerines; the smallest Accipiter species also hunts hummingbirds. Occurrence of a possibly avivorous raptor in the early Oligocene of Europe is particularly notable because A. longicrus coexisted with the earliest Northern Hemispheric passerines and modern-type hummingbirds. We therefore hypothesize that the diversification of these birds towards the early Oligocene may have triggered the evolution of small-sized avivorous raptors, and the new fossil may exemplify one of the earliest examples of avian predator/prey coevolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Located on the eastern margin of Eurasia, the Japanese Archipelago hosts a unique modern fauna of terrestrial vertebrates including landbirds which show a high proportion of endemic species/subspecies. Despite its potential importance in taxonomy and biogeography, the Pleistocene landbird fossil record has been scarce on Japanese islands, providing little information on the history of the unique fauna in the region. In this study, fossil remains of non-passeriform landbirds from the middle–late Pleistocene (Marine Isotope Stages [MIS] 9 and 5e) of Shiriya, northernmost Honshu Island, Japan, are revised with extensive osteological comparisons. As a result, the presence of at least six non-passeriform landbird species, represented by 71 specimens, was confirmed: Syrmaticus sp., Coturnicini gen. et sp. indet., Columbidae gen. et sp. indet., Apus sp., Haliaeetus sp., and Accipitridae gen. et sp. indet. The Shiriya paleoavifauna is the first substantial Pleistocene landbird fauna reported from the central Japanese islands so far, and suggests that the overall landbird fauna in northern Honshu in the last interglacial period (MIS 5e) was not drastically different from the present one, in contrast to the presence of several extinct land mammals and seabirds in the local fauna. The occurrence of Syrmaticus despite the supposedly colder climate in that time than today suggests that the distribution of modern S. soemmerringii might not be totally defined by climatic factors, but probably affected by a biogeographic barrier at the strait between Honshu and Hokkaido islands.

The application and evaluation of highly efficient chromatographic techniques with tandem mass spectrometry for the detection and quantitation of 108 pesticides and metabolites, some considered persistent organic pollutants, was performed in muscle samples obtained from 25 birds of prey belonging to the families Accipitridae, Falconidae, and Strigidae presented dead in 2013 to Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat, in Madrid, Spain. Pesticides with prohibited use were detected at high concentrations in the muscle samples analyzed. Based on its high sensitivity to detect pesticides in muscle, the described chromatographic techniques with tandem mass spectrometry should be considered an alternative testing methodology to those commonly used for routine application in ecotoxicological forensic research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Theoretical models propose that the spatial extent at which landscape structure best predicts species responses (scale of effect, SoE) depends on habitat and dietary specialization, landscape metrics, and response variables. However, empirical support for such models is scarce, especially for apex predators. Objectives: To determine SoE for diurnal raptors, and test for differences among ecological traits of habitat and dietary specialization, landscape metrics, and response variables. Methods: We conducted 1.5 km transect surveys of diurnal raptors at 26 sites in a tropical dry forest from western Mexico. We measured four landscape metrics (forest cover, matrix hardness, forest patch density, edge density) in 16 concentric landscapes (400 to 3400 ha) around each survey site. We then assessed the landscape size at which each landscape metric best predicted each response variable (abundance, species richness, temporal beta diversity). Finally, we tested for differences in SoE among ecological traits of raptors, landscape metrics, and response variables. Results: Landscape composition metrics of forest cover and matrix hardness decreased with increasing landscape size, and were the main landscape predictors influencing diurnal raptors. SoE differed significantly among landscape metrics, being larger for forest cover (2433.3 ha) than matrix hardness (1500 ha). However, SoE did not differ significantly among ecological traits of raptors, or response variables. Conclusions: SoE was mainly driven by spatial metrics, with diurnal raptors being more strongly associated with forest cover measured over larger scales. This supports findings for other taxa and suggests that forest cover influences dispersal success across larger scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Connectivity between golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) populations is poorly understood. Field studies exploring natal dispersal suggest that this raptor is a philopatric species, but with the ability to roam far. However, little is known about the population structure of the species in Europe. Our study is based on 14 microsatellite loci and is complemented by new and previously published mitochondrial control region DNA data. The present dataset includes 121 eagles from Scotland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, the Mediterranean and Alpine regions. Our sampling focused on the Alpine and Mediterranean populations because both mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) lineages found in golden eagles, the Holarctic and the Mediterranean, are known to co-occur there. Cluster analyses of nuclear DNA support a shallow split into northern and southern populations in Europe, similar to the distribution of the two mtDNA lineages, with the Holarctic lineage occurring in the north and the Mediterranean lineage predominating in the south. Additionally, Scotland shows significant differentiation and low relative migration levels that indicate isolation from the mainland populations. Alpine and Mediterranean golden eagles do not show nuclear structure corresponding to divergent mtDNA lineages. This indicates that the presence of northern Holarctic mitochondrial haplotypes in the Alps and the Mediterranean is attributable to past admixture rather than recent long-distance dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Northern Goshawk Accipiter gentilis is a medium‐sized bird of prey inhabiting boreal and temperate forests. It has a Holarctic distribution with 10 recognized subspecies. Traditionally, it has been placed within the Accipiter [gentilis] superspecies, together with Henst's Goshawk A. henstii, the Black Sparrowhawk A. melanoleucus, and Meyer's Goshawk A. meyerianus. While those four taxa are geographically separated from each other, hence referred to as allospecies, their phylogenetic relationships are still unresolved. In the present study, we performed phylogenetic analyses on the Accipiter [gentilis] superspecies, including all recognized subspecies of all four allospecies, using partial sequences of two marker loci of the mitochondrial genome, the control region and the cytochrome b gene. We found a deep split within A. gentilis into two monophyletic groups, a Nearctic clade (three subspecies) and a Palearctic clade (seven subspecies). The Palearctic clade is closely related to A. meyerianus, and together these two were more closely related to the other Old World taxa A. henstii and A. melanoleucus, which in turn were reciprocally monophyletic sister species. As a consequence, A. gentilis as usually conceived (including all Holarctic subspecies) was non‐monophyletic. We found a strong genetic homogeneity within Palearctic A. gentilis despite the fact that it comprises seven subspecies distributed from the Atlantic coast in Western Europe to Eastern Siberia. Relationships between the four clades could not be resolved unambiguously. Our results, if confirmed by more integrative data, would imply a taxonomic revision of Nearctic A. gentilis into a separate allospecies, Accipiter [gentilis] atricapillus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitogenome of the Accipiter nisus is a circular module of 18,352 bp, which consists of 39 genes, containing 2 rRNA genes (12S rRNA and 16S rRNA), 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, and two non-coding regions (control region and pseudo control region). The mitogenome of A. nisus is composed of 31.3% A, 25.5% T, 30.4% C, 12.8% G, and 76.3% AT. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that A. nisus individuals was well grouped in Accipitridae and more closely related to genus Circus than other Accpiter species

A hen harrier Circus cyaneus (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae), a migrant raptor having a wide breeding range from Europe to Northeast Asia, migrates to more southerly areas (Southern Europe, China, Korea and Japan) in winter. In this study, the complete mitochondrial genome of C. cyaneus was completely sequenced and characterized. It was 20,173 bp in length being composed of 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, two ribosomal RNA genes and two control regions. It has a base composition of A (32.2%), G (12.6%), C (30.5%) and T (24.7%). The phylogenetic tree reconstructed based on the maximum likelihood (ML) method confirms that C. cyaneus places within the clade of the family Accipitridae in the monophyletic avian order Accipitriformes.

This is the first study to describe the mitochondrial genome of the Himalayan Griffon, Gyps himalayensis, which is an Old World vulture belonging to the family Accipitridae and occurring along the Himalayas and the adjoining Tibetan Plateau. Its mitogenome is a closed circular molecule 17,381 bp in size containing 13 protein‐coding genes, 22 tRNA coding genes, two rRNA‐coding genes, a control region (CR), and an extra pseudo‐control region (CCR) that are conserved in most Accipitridae mitogenomes. The overall base composition of the G. himalayensis mitogenome is 24.55% A, 29.49% T, 31.59% C, and 14.37% G, which is typical for bird mitochondrial genomes. The alignment of the Accipitridae species control regions showed high levels of genetic variation and abundant AT content. At the 5′ end of the domain I region, a long continuous poly‐C sequence was found. Two tandem repeats were found in the pseudo‐control regions. Phylogenetic analysis with Bayesian inference and maximum likelihood based on 13 protein‐coding genes indicated that the relationships at the family level were (Falconidae + (Cathartidae + (Sagittariidae + (Accipitridae + Pandionidae))). In the Accipitridae clade, G. himalayensis is more closely related to Aegypius monachus than to Spilornis cheela. The complete mitogenome of G. himalayensis provides a potentially useful resource for further exploration of the taxonomic status and phylogenetic history of Gyps species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Black‐shouldered kites (BSK, Elanus caeruleus), Brahminy kites (BrK, Haliastur indus), and black kites (BK, Milvus migrans govinda) are medium‐sized hawks found in Thailand, and little is known about the hematology of these three kite species. Objective: This study reports basic hematologic values and describes the light microscopic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural characteristics of blood cells in these kites. Methods: Blood samples were collected from 113 healthy kites (50 BSKs, 53 BrKs, and 10 BKs) from January 2012 to December 2017. Complete blood cell counts, cytochemical staining (Sudan black B, peroxidase [PO], periodic acid‐Schiff, α‐naphthyl acetate esterase, and β‐glucuronidase), and transmission electron microscopy were performed using standard methods. Results: Hematology, morphometry, and cytochemical staining patterns of blood cells were tabulated. BSK erythrocytes were smaller than BrK and BK erythrocytes. Heterophils, the largest granulocytes, were the most prevalent leukocytes in all kites. Cytochemical reactions in blood cells from these three kite species were the same, except that heterophils from BrKs were the only cells positive for PO. The ultrastructure of heterophil and eosinophil granules from the BSKs were similar in their homogeneous electron densities but differed in shape. The eosinophil granules from BrKs and BKs revealed heterogeneous electron densities with central pallor in some granules. Basophils had different granular electron densities, and some granules were electron‐lucent. Conclusion: The 23 baseline hematologic values and morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural characteristics of all blood cell types in this study provide reference data for future kite healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The generalized data allowing to specify the recent distribution of the Lesser Spotted Eagle in the eastern part of the range are presented. The analysis of the publications for different years affirms the eastward expansion of the range since the early 1990s, as well as a significant increase of the occupied area within the limits of the range. Confirmed breeding attempts in Ivanovo Region and Chuvash Republic have evidenced that the recent eastern border of the range is reaching the 47th meridian, much further than considered earlier. The spatial relations and hybridization with the Greater Spotted Eagle are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main factors affecting the habitat preferences of Lesser Spotted Eagle in the Belarusian part of Polesie have been described. Such data can be used in the development of measures for the protection of this species. We identified the optimal nesting conditions at two levels: within areas of 2 km diameter around the nests (using GIS) (eagle's home range), and within an immediate radius of 200 meters around the nests, where all the vegetation was described. The most important factors in the selection of a home range were the distance to the foraging habitat and the competitive relationships (the distance to the nearest neighbouring Lesser Spotted Eagle nest). Regarding the selection of a nesting site, the main factors were: the size of the nesting tree (tree diameter 66.5 ± 35 cm), the distance between the nest and the hunting ground (0.5 ± 0.2 km), the presence of forest glades and the stand density. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]