| Description |
<p>Raptors are an indicator species, meaning their presence or absence can indicate the overall health of an ecosystem. Monitoring raptor populations provides valuable insights into the ecological health of an area and help identify imbalances in the ecosystem.<br/>Raptors contribute to biodiversity by occupying various ecological niches and habitats. They display a wide range of adaptations and hunting strategies, and consume a diverse array of prey. This helps maintain overall biodiversity and the health of ecosystems by preventing the dominance of specific prey species and promoting species diversity throughout the food chain.<br/>Raptors are highly effective in controlling populations of rodents and small mammals. These prey species can cause damage to crops, spread diseases, and impact the balance of natural ecosystems. Raptors provide natural pest control services, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and helping to mitigate the negative effects of pests on agriculture and human health. Overall, raptors are incredibly beneficial to ecosystems and to humans.<br/>MRCC’s rescue and rehab program is a critical part of our operations, and of raptor conservation. This program allows us to ensure raptor health, through veterinary intervention and physical rehabilitation, as well as learn – firsthand – about the threats Montana’s raptors are facing and, in turn, educate the public. Raptors play a vital role in balancing Montana’s ecosystem, from disease mitigation to pest control, raptors populations are a critical element of, and barometer for, the health of our ecosystems. <br/>Funds will be used to directly support the costs of rescue and rehabilitation which include medical care, medications, staff time, food for the raptors, and meeting any special needs the birds may have.</p> |
| Benefits |
The work do at MRCC is regional, but our lessons and findings are disseminated on a much larger scale. We work with over 10 universities and colleges to assist in the research and development of best-practice methods of treatment for injured raptors. Because of this, we keep incredibly detailed information on all of our patients, their treatments, and their outcomes to contribute to the knowledge of our field, help other provide better outcomes for raptors. |
