Conservation of the Harpy Eagle: A New Research Initiative at Boise State University
Significant Funding for Ecological Research
The Peregrine Fund, a ecology/article242/” title=”Exciting PreK Pathfinders: Dive into Stream Ecology at Trexler Nature Preserve with WFMZ Events!”>conservation nonprofit based in Boise, has allocated approximately $250,000 to bolster research on the harpy eagle’s ecology and the potential threats it faces in Panama. This initiative will be integrated into an international collaboration set to commence in Spring 2025.
Leadership from an Emerging Scholar
Fabio Díaz-Santos, a newly enrolled Ph.D. student from Nicaragua, is set to spearhead this ambitious research effort. With over ten years of practical experience in ecological studies across Central and South America, he brings valuable expertise. His background includes collaborating with indigenous communities, conducting remote field research within tropical ecosystems, analyzing ecological data using advanced techniques like remote sensing technologies, and managing diverse biological projects.
Field Research Collaboration
In his capacity as a Ph.D. candidate focusing on ecology, evolution, and behavior at Boise State University (BSU), Díaz-Santos will work closely with The Peregrine Fund at their site located within the Darien Gap—the lush rainforest region that borders Panama and Colombia. This partnership also supports the indigenous Emberá and Wounaan communities as they strive to maintain stewardship over their territories while enhancing conservation efforts for harpy eagles alongside their natural habitat.
Global Commitment to Raptor Preservation
This initiative aligns seamlessly with The Peregrine Fund’s overarching goal of ensuring long-term conservation of birds of prey across various regions worldwide. Despite its headquarters being situated in Boise, this organization operates programs dedicated to raptors on five continents while also providing scholarships and mentorship opportunities aimed at nurturing future raptor scientists.
Evan Buechley, vice president for international programs at The Peregrine Fund expressed enthusiasm about this cooperative venture: “The collaboration is particularly exciting due to its potential benefits for all parties involved—especially through shared resources and expertise applicable globally.”
Strengthening BSU’s Focus on Raptor Studies
For Boise State University—which uniquely offers a Master’s program specifically devoted to Raptor Biology—this partnership signifies a growth opportunity beyond local confines. Established in 1987 through the Raptor Research Center’s innovation initiatives, this program has earned international recognition thanks largely to Idaho’s rich biodiversity involving numerous raptors within regions like southern Idaho’s Snake River plain.
Assistant Professor Jennyffer Cruz remarked on how advantageous this collaboration could be for students: “Engaging with The Peregrine Fund expands our academic horizons while giving students access to enthralling projects worldwide.”
Upon completing his doctorate degree at BSU, Díaz-Santos aims towards a career focused on academia where imparting knowledge will serve as his primary passion statement: “I derive immense fulfillment when individuals acquire new insights.”
