Stakeholder perspectives on raptor conservation and falconry in North America

Abstract

Global raptor conservation depends on non-governmental conservation organizations (NGCOs) and, fundamentally, members of those organizations. But while NGCOs declare a central mission, their membership may be more varied. This can pose a challenge to a NGCO in terms of developing programs and advocacy that reflects its membership’s preference and likelihood of support. Systematic assessment of members’ preferences and opinions is needed to assure alignment with an organization’s actions. Using the North American Falconers Association (NAFA) as a NGCO case study, members’ preferences and opinions on issues related to raptor conservation were assessed. Results suggest a consensus among participants that conservation should include habitats and species; prairie, sage, and wetland habitats are the most salient habitat issues and perceived declines in native game bird, waterfowl, and small game mammals are the most salient wildlife issues. Tied to these concerns of habitat and species was land access to practice falconry. Overall, results suggest participants prefer organizational resources be used to support prairie habitat and grouse species conservation. For NGCOs, systematic membership surveys can provide substantial insight for decision-making and effective allocation of membership-derived resources. Member surveys also signal an organizations willingness to listen to its constituents and act upon their views and local knowledge to coordinate conservation action.