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RAPTOR SURVEYS

Since 2007, members of YAAS have been active participants in raptor surveys in the eastern Central Valley area covering parts of eastern Merced and Madera counties and western Mariposa County.

On a regular schedule, in accordance with defined survey protocols, we follow prescribed routes and count the number of raptors and note the location, species, and sex of each bird. These data are then provided to ornithologists who have published papers based on the results of the surveys done by YAAS as well as those of other groups and individuals participating in the program.

We have two routes: the Le Grand route which covers parts of eastern Merced and western Mariposa counties and a second route in the eastern Madera County foothills.

Participants are welcome but space is limited. Please send an email to conservation@yosemiteaudubon.org or click the button below to let us know your interest.

I'M INTERESTED IN PARTICIPATING

Species Recorded by YAAS during Raptor Surveys
Note: the Loggerhead Shrike, a species in decline, is included, although it is a songbird. For the purposes of the study, we consider it an “honorary” raptor. Turkey Vultures are also not raptors, but resemble raptors both perched in trees and soaring, so these are also counted.

American Kestrel
Bald Eagle
Barn Owl
Burrowing Owl
Cooper's Hawk
Ferruginous Hawk
Golden Eagle
Great Horned Owl
Harlan's Hawk
Loggerhead Shrike
Long-eared Owl
Merlin
Northern Harrier
Osprey
Peregrine Falcon
Prairie Falcon
Rough-legged Hawk
Red-shouldered Hawk
Red-tailed Hawk
Sharp-shinned Hawk
Short-eared Owl
Swainson's Hawk
Turkey Vulture
White-tailed Kite