The Great spotted eagle <i>Aquila clanga</i> in the Altai Territory and Altai Republic, Russia

Abstract

Aim. To summarise information provided so as to allow us to compile a modern understanding of the breeding ranges, abundance and breeding biology of the Great Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga, a rare species in the Altai Territory and the Altai Republic.Material and Methods. While studying the distribution, abundance and nesting biology of the Great Spotted Eagle, we used generally accepted methods with certain modifications. The species was observed during foot and car surveys. To get an idea of the distribution of the spotted eagle in the region, an analysis of available sources was carried out, including materials from the Red Data Book of the Altai Territory and other relevant information resources.Results. Nesting groups of a feathered predator are characterised by uneven spatial distribution. This is due to the habit of the spotted eagle to gravitate to wetlands and floodplain lands in high‐trunk mixed forests, alternating with meadow‐pasture and field landscapes. In ribbon and acquisition forests, as well as in wildlife sanctuaries located on their territory, there has been a rapid trend towards a decrease in the population of the species, primarily due to selective felling of vegetation and disturbance of the birds during the nesting period. In this regar, there is a need to expand and deepen ornithological studies aimed at improving environmental measures for the Great Spotted Eagle.Conclusions. Protection of this species should be combined with inevitable criminal or administrative punishment of poachers and illegal forest users, who are involved in destructive environmental activities in the region discussed. Otherwise, the progressive extinction of the Great Spotted Eagle population in Altai will reach a critical point in forthcoming years.