Artificial Nest Structures and Grassland Raptors

During a four-year study at the Birds of Prey National Conservation Area in Idaho, nest structures were placed in three different habitat types. Two species, the Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis) and the Raven (Corvus corax), successfully nested on these structures. Ferruginous Hawks utilized sites where no raptor nests had previously been found. Component factors are discussed that may affect the selection of artificial nest by raptors. Applications are presented in which artificial nest structures may serve to mitigate loss of natural nest sites and associated habitat.