Preliminary data on Montagu’s Harrier, Circus pygargus, population in Lazio

Abstract

From 2003 to 2007, we monitored a Montagu’s Harrier population in Central Italy (Lazio). We studied the trend of this population to evaluate the decreasing productivity affecting these small colonies. We found that in this area the dependence to nest in cereal crops exposed the species to the threat of harvesting activity. We undertook a conservation plan purchasing part of the crops where the nests were located to allow the survival of nestlings.