Management of Large Hawks and Eagles
Last Review/Updated: May 31, 2002
In Alberta, birds of prey are protected by the Wildlife Act. This legislative act prohibits birds from being killed or harassed by people.
However, the protection of individuals does not necessarily ensure the survival of a species. Like all wildlife, raptors require suitable habitat in which to nest and feed. When this habitat is removed, birds must try to find and occupy other suitable habitat that may already be occupied. Since a habitat can only support a certain number of birds, some will not survive. Urban, industrial and agricultural developments are important causes of declines in populations of these hawks.
In addition to providing habitat for game species, the Buck for Wildlife Program of the Alberta Conservation Association (off-site) provides habitat for raptors and other nongame wildlife. Programs for hawks and eagles have increased the number of nesting sites through the erection of nest platforms and development of nesting habitat.
