SMALL TO MEDIUM RAPTORS
POPULATION
We monitor a range of small to medium raptors in the Overberg, with varying population sizes. For example, the IUCN estimates there to be around 93,000 mature Peregrine Falcon individuals. Lanner Falcon numbers are also thought to be under 100,000 mature individuals.
KNOW YOUR RAPTORS
The OCG monitors and creates awareness around raptors like Harriers, Kestrels, Kites and Falcons.
WHERE ARE THEY FOUND?
These raptors occur across South Africa and beyond, also in the Overberg.
WHAT HABITAT DO RAPTORS LIKE?
These species opt for a variety of habitats. Lanner Falcons for example like habitats such as lowland deserts and forested mountains. Sparrowhawks and goshawks prefer forested habitats including plantations, while harriers like open country and breed on the ground. Falcons generally breed on cliffs.
THREATS
Falcons, Kestrels, Kites and Harriers face a variety of threats. Lanner Falcons are listed as Vulnerable regionally. Peregrine Falcons were shot in large numbers in Europe in past decades. Of course habitat loss is another threat to many of these raptors.
ACTION TO SAVE OUR RAPTORS
The Overberg Crane Group monitors these raptors in the Overberg, to better understand their habits, numbers and threats.
THE IUCN RED LIST OF THREATENED SPECIES/RED DATA BOOK OF BIRDS OF SOUTH AFRICA:
| Not Evaluated | Data Deficient | Least Concern | Near Threatened | Vulnerable | Endangered | Critically endangered | Extinct in the wild | Extinct |
DEAD OR INJURED BIRDS
Blue Cranes and other birds are often found dead or injured in the Overberg. Please report dead or injured birds to our OCG Extension Officer, Keir Lynch by email to support@bluecrane.org.za or phone 084 369 0969.
REPORT RINGED BIRDS
Hundreds of Blue Cranes have had rings placed on their legs over the years. We use these rings to identify Blue Cranes. With this information, we can learn more about them. If you see a Blue Crane with rings on its legs, please let us know.
SUPPORT
The Overberg Crane Group is the only organisation dedicated to protecting our Overberg's birds, like Blue Cranes and Cape Vultures. We need your help to protect our threatened bird species from possible future extinction.
BIRDLASSER APP
There’s a convenient way for bird lovers to note the birds they see – using the BirdLasser app. You can download the BirdLasser app to your cellphone. It’s also a great tool for bird lovers to keep accurate records of their sightings
