Making room for raptors: supporting biodiversity in urban forests of Bariloche, Argentina

26 February, 2025

By Lucía Bocelli

Lucía Bocelli in Argentina.

In an increasingly urbanized world, biodiversity conservation becomes increasingly reliant on how people interact with and use the remaining natural spaces in urban environments. Urbanization poses a significant threat to natural habitats, leading to the deterioration and fragmentation of forests that are crucial for supporting native wildlife.

Fledgling Rufous-legged Owl (Strix rufipes). Photo by Facundo Vital.

However, forests around urban areas (“urban forests”) can provide essential resources for both wildlife and people, offering habitat to many species, particularly raptors, if they are well-managed. In Latin America, despite the gradual integration of biodiversity criteria into public land management policies, there are still significant information deficits, particularly in the southern Andes mountains.

Rufous-legged Owl (Strix rufipes). Photo by Facundo Vital.

As apex predators, raptors play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance but face threats including habitat loss due to urbanization. With support from IBCP, I am conducting research to evaluate the habitat potential of urban forests for raptors in Bariloche, the most developed city in northwestern Argentine Patagonia. Specifically, I am working with colleagues at the National Scientific and Technical Research Council and University of Comahue, Argentina, and this research will form part of my PhD. Together, we will identify key habitat features and develop management indicators to enhance habitat quality for sensitive species.

Chilean Hawk (Accipiter chilensis). Photo by Facundo Vital.

To determine the composition of urban forest raptor assemblages, we will use complementary methods, including diurnal raptor surveys and a network of autonomous acoustic recording devices. Additionally, we will conduct systematic searches for raptor nests and engage local residents in reporting raptor sightings and nests. To determine raptor-habitat associations, we will compare occupied and unoccupied patches to identify key habitat features associated with raptor presence.

Barn Owls (Tyto alba). Photo by Facundo Vital.

Unfortunately, deficiencies in planning, management, and public and decision-maker education have led to habitat loss and several threats to sensitive wildlife. To address these issues, we aim to develop management indicators that maximize habitat quality for wildlife and to raise awareness on human activities that threaten wildlife. Our results will serve to foster human-nature connection, generate “best practices” manuals for the public and provide guidelines to enhance governmental and professional capacities for planning and managing a city that supports urban forests suitable for raptors.

Austral Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium nana). Photo by Facundo Vital.