Natural Research has partnered with the Fitzpatrick Institute (South Africa) to suppor t studies on the poorly-known Papuan Harrier (Circus spilothorax) in New Guinea. Since no previous work has been undertaken, the breeding ecology, distribution, movements, habitat and diet of the species are entirely unknown; we only have sightings of this bird (see map below)!
Of the 16 species of harrier in the world, more than a quarter (29%) are globally threatened because their main habitat (wetlands and grasslands) are under severe pressure everywhere, mainly from agriculture. The Papuan Harrier has been described as uncommon by local experts, and increasing use of grasslands for farming in the valleys may put it under further pressure.
In addition to collecting the first ever information about this species’ ecology, our biologists will be collecting moulted feathers from nest and roost sites. These feathers will be used as a source of DNA for analysis of whether the Papuan Harrier is a distinct island endemic or whether it is a sub-species of the more common Eastern Marsh Harrier.
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| Harrier search areas determined by latest sightings. |
For further information please contact Dr Rob Simmons: Rob.Simmons@uct.ac.za or Dr. Ruth Tingay ruth.tingay@natural-research.org
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