How have shooting, trapping, and egg collecting affected falconiform populations?

Shooting, trapping, and egg collecting have historically posed significant threats to falconiform populations, often driven by ignorance, prejudice, or commercial interests.1

• Shooting and Trapping: Many falconiforms have been subjected to indiscriminate killing due to the unfounded belief that they pose a threat to livestock, poultry, or game. Even when these claims lack evidence, such as the persecution of the golden eagle for alleged sheep predation, the resulting shooting and trapping have led to local extinctions.1
• Egg Collecting: The collection of eggs from threatened species, often for commercial purposes, has been identified as a critical conservation problem. This activity, alongside the collection of specimens for museums, zoos, and falconry, has negatively impacted various species.1

To ensure the survival of these birds, conservation efforts must prioritize the active control of such persecution. Protecting these populations requires moving beyond unreasoning prejudice and implementing measures to stop the illegal or unsustainable collection of eggs and the active destruction of raptors through shooting, trapping, and poisoning.1