New study reveals unexpected impact of COVID pandemic: 'Appeared to be inherent'
Yahoo••science
Key Points:
- A University of Granada study during the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns revealed that human activities, including hiking and mountain biking, pose a greater threat to the endangered Bonelli's eagle subpopulation in southeastern Spain than natural factors.
- The research found that breeding eagles and chicks face high mortality risks from hunting and lead poisoning, with human presence negatively impacting nesting success regardless of exposure levels.
- As a keystone apex predator, the Bonelli's eagle plays a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance by controlling prey populations, highlighting the broader ecological importance of its conservation.
- The study recommends banning the use of partridge hunting decoys in southern Spain and restricting recreational access to eagle nesting sites during critical breeding months to protect the species.
- These findings
