Distribution and Abundance of Swainson’s and Ferruginous Hawks in ND: Development of Models to Assist in Conservation Planning (SWG T-3-1(2))

Grassland birds have shown the steepest, most consistent, widespread population declines of any bird group in North America.  Swainson’s and ferruginous hawks are species of concern in North Dakota, but basic attributes of their demography in the state – current range, distribution, abundance, habitat use, and population trend – are poorly understood.  Several grassland raptors appear to be declining in the face of widespread habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation.  Native prairie, particularly within the Missouri Coteau, is important for ferruginous hawk nesting and foraging.  Moreover, Swainson’s and ferruginous hawks are showing significant declines in productivity, perhaps in response to declines of their primary prey, Richardson’s ground squirrel.