Indian Spotted Eagle
Key species
Indian Spotted Eagle
Location
Wetlands of Bangladesh
Status
Completed
Duration
2018–2020
Target community
Science
About the project
The Indian Spotted Eagle is a globally neaer-threatened resident raptor in Bangladesh, yet historically received little targeted research or conservation attention in the country. Prior to this project, information on its wintering distribution, roosting ecology and site-specific threats was limited.
This project aimed to document the resident population, identify key roosting and foraging areas, assess threats and raise awareness among local communities. Through systematic field surveys and stakeholder engagement, the project generated the first focused conservation baseline for the species in Bangladesh.
The problem
– limited information on wintering distribution and key roosting sites in Bangladesh
– habitat degradation and disturbance in wetlands and agricultural landscapes
– low public awareness of the species’ conservation status
The cause
– absence of targeted surveys and systematic monitoring
– weak documentation of roosting ecology and habitat requirements
– limited integration of raptor conservation into wetland and land-use planning
The solution
– conduct systematic field surveys to locate individuals and roost sites
– document habitat use and site-specific threats
– engage communities and local stakeholders to promote awareness and protection
Project Goal
To improve understanding and conservation of the Indian Spotted Eagle in Bangladesh through research, site identification and community engagement.
Project Objectives
– identify important wintering and communal roost sites
– assess habitat characteristics and threats at key sites
– raise awareness among local communities and authorities
– provide baseline data to support future monitoring and conservation action
Activities
Between 2018 and 2019, systematic surveys were conducted across selected wetlands and agricultural landscapes to locate Indian Spotted Eagles and identify communal roosting areas. Habitat characteristics, land-use patterns and disturbance pressures were documented.
Community consultations and awareness meetings were held near key sites to reduce disturbance and promote protection of roost trees. Findings were compiled into technical reports and shared with conservation stakeholders and relevant authorities.
Outcomes
he project identified important wintering and roosting sites for Indian Spotted Eagles in Bangladesh and generated baseline data on habitat use and threats. Communal roost trees were documented, improving understanding of the species’ winter ecology.
Local awareness was increased at key sites, reducing disturbance pressure at identified roost areas. The project established the first structured foundation for monitoring this globally threatened raptor in Bangladesh.
The findings provide essential baseline information for integrating raptor conservation into broader wetland and landscape management planning.
Meet the Team
Mohammod Foysal
Principal Investigator
SCOPE Team
Field surveys
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