"The study of birds of prey, especially those species that play the role of top predators in the ecosystems they inhabit, is essential."
In 2010, within the framework of the "Predators of Argentina" Research Center, we initiated this project with the aim of understanding the lives of birds of prey along the shores of the Argentine Sea. Until that point, no one had shown interest in the "marine raptors" of Argentina.
While the Peregrine Falcon (𝘍𝘢𝘭𝘤𝘰 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘶𝘴) has been and continues to be the focus of our studies, we have also contributed to the understanding of the reproduction and abundance of other species. With the data obtained, we have published 21 articles in scientific journals (Nótulas Faunísticas, Historia Natural, Ornitología Neotropical, and Journal of Raptor Research) and two in popular science magazines ("Aves Argentinas" and "Biomas") (look at Published Articles).
Our research provides information about all the protected areas of the Gulf of San Matías and the AICA (Area of Importance for Bird Conservation) "Villa Marítima El Cóndor", but the vast majority of the investigations have focused on the "Punta Bermeja" Natural Area and the aforementioned AICA, covering around 40 km of cliffs.
However, our goal has been, from the beginning, to survey the entire coastline of the Gulf in order to determine the number of pairs of different species in the raptor community present there and delve into aspects of their ecology. Unfortunately, we have not yet been able to achieve this, as the project lacks funding.
The role of birds of prey as indicators of ecosystem health is well known, which is why having this type of information and being able to conduct population monitoring over several years is crucial, especially in the Gulf of San Matías. This is particularly important as in the area there are megaprojects plans that, if carried out, could cause severe disruptions to the coastal marine environment (look at The Study Area)