Diego Gallego García holding a Chaco eagle (Buteogallus coronatus) fledgling while checking that the GPS transmitter is fitted correctly to it. Photo taken near Villa Minetti, north-western Santa Fe province. ©Mauricio Rossanigo.

The aim of this project is to combine research and conservation efforts in order to promote the long-term survival of the Chaco eagle in the Dry Chaco of Argentina. First, we will explore new areas in this ecoregion, searching for breeding territories and nests with the aid of local communities, which will provide us with data on the presence and perception of this endangered species. This will help us promote agreements with institutions in order to legally protect this threatened bird. Second, we will monitor all identified Chaco eagle breeding nests across the reproductive season, to examine the diet, nest success and sources of mortality. Third, we will survey power lines across the area to identify risky pylons where the Chaco eagle (and other birds) could be electrocuted, and we will use this information to promote safer designs to regional energy administrations. Fourth, we will continue installing rescue ramps as a mitigation measure to reduce Chaco eagle (and other wildlife) drownings in water reservoirs. Last, talks at schools and meetings with producers will help us tackle potential conflicts that lead to direct persecution. This project will reinforce our long-term monitoring program in the Dry Chaco, contributing to the conservation of this endangered species.

A Chaco eagle fledgling at its nest. Photo taken near Jagüel del Monte, La Pampa province, central Argentina. ©Mariano Pastor Dolsan.