Science in Practice Portal

In the early 1960s, the public became concerned about the sharp decline in raptor populations, mainly because of the negative effects of pesticides on raptor reproductive success. Thanks to conservation measures, most raptor populations have now recovered to viable numbers. Land management agencies are now shifting priorities from increasing raptor populations to protecting other sensitive species. For example, in the sage–steppe ecosystem, land managers are particularly concerned about the decline of the greater sagegrouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) and other sensitive sage-obligate species.