Recovery of a historically emblematic species of Mexico

Recovery of a historically emblematic species of Mexico Five years ago, Pronatura Noroeste joined forces with Cemex, Birdlife International, Arizona Game and Fish Department, and Conanp to conduct a thorough exploration of the Sierra de Cucurpe in Sonora. As a result of this expedition, we located the first Golden Eagle nest registered in this area. Since the Golden Eagle is a threatened species and emblematic of Mexico, this discovery motivated the implementation of an action plan with three strategic focuses: evaluate the conservation status of the Golden Eagle in the area, carry out activities to restore its habitat, and build capacities and implement an education plan for Golden Eagle conservation in the area.

As part of this program, in 2015 we installed a satellite transmitter on a juvenile Golden Eagle, which allowed us to know the exact area of its habitat and location of its nest. Based on this information, we implemented a plan to rehabilitate the habitat through reforestation and livestock management, and worked to raise awareness in the local communities about the threats posed by the introduction of exotic invasive grasses, the hunting of the Golden Eagle in the region, and the use of toxic substances to poison animals that are considered pests. These are important steps to promote the interest and create the required capacities at the local level to maintain long-term conservation efforts for the species.