Raptor morbidity, mortality, and post-release survival tracking: rehabilitation outcomes from a wildlife rehabilitation centre in Cyprus

Abstract Raptors as apex predators hold an ecologically important position in biological food webs and historically have faced numerous challenges. Wildlife rehabilitation centres provide an opportunity to understand the regional threats to local raptors. This study details the admissions and recoveries of wild raptors admitted to the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Northern Cyprus between 2016 and 2022. A total of 1,101 raptors were admitted, comprising 22 species and three families, with a mean rehabilitation success rate of 42.6%. The most common species admitted were common kestrels ( Falco tinnunculus ) (44.1%), little owls ( Athene noctua ) (22.8%), and western barn owls ( Tyto alba ) (11.6%). The prevalent causes of admission were trauma (unknown) (27.2%), orphaned/abandoned (22.6%), and collision (11.9%). Post-release survival rates averaged 368 days ± 407 SD (median = 183, range 2–1,177). Six birds [four long-legged buzzards ( Buteo rufinus ), one European honey buzzard ( Pernis apivorus ) and one northern goshawk ( Astur gentilis )] were GPS tracked following recovery, and their average survival time was 319 days ± 334 SD (median =184, range 18–847, and one still transmitting). Additionally, one Bonelli’s eagle ( Aquila fasciata ) and four long-legged buzzards were fitted with either a tail-mounted or leg-mounted VHF radio transmitter, which were less successful, with only the Bonelli’s eagle being tracked away from its release site. Post-release survival indicates that the release assessment of individuals is professionally managed, while the rehabilitation success rates demonstrate that the centre is delivering effective treatment and care.