Morbidity in Wild Raptors: A Long-Term Study
Author Information
Author(s): Molina-López Rafael A., Casal Jordi, Darwich Laila
Primary Institution: Centre de Fauna Salvatge de Torreferrussa, Catalan Wildlife-Service, Forestal Catalana, Spain
Hypothesis
What are the causes of morbidity in wild raptors admitted to a rehabilitation center in Spain from 1995 to 2007?
Conclusion
The study found that trauma and orphaned young birds were the main causes of morbidity in wild raptors, with significant variations observed over the years.
Supporting Evidence
- Trauma was the most common cause of morbidity, accounting for 49.5% of cases.
- Orphaned young birds represented 32.2% of the total admissions.
- Gunshot injuries remained constant throughout the study period.
- Electrocution and infectious diseases were also significant causes of morbidity.
Takeaway
This study looked at sick birds of prey in Spain and found that many were hurt or lost their parents, showing how humans can affect wildlife.
Methodology
A retrospective study analyzing admission reports of wild raptors at a rehabilitation center over 12 years, focusing on causes of morbidity and their incidence in wild populations.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the focus on cases admitted to rehabilitation centers, which may not represent the overall wild population.
Limitations
The study may have limitations due to the lack of randomization and overrepresentation of human-induced casualties.
Participant Demographics
The study included 7021 wild raptors from various species, primarily from the orders Strigiformes and Falconiformes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI: 48.3–50.7
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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