Monitoring methods for the Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos in Norway

Abstract

Capsule: A description of the methods used for monitoring the Golden Eagle Aquila chrysaetos in Norway Aims: To provide a comprehensive description of monitoring methods. Methods: The intensive monitoring of the Golden Eagle in Norway started in 1991 as part of a national monitoring programme initiated by the Directorate for Nature Management (now the Norwegian Environment Agency). It has since become part of the Norwegian Large Predator Programme, and Golden Eagles are currently being monitored in 12 separate areas. Here we provide a comprehensive description of the current methods used in the intensive monitoring, with definitions, fieldwork and evaluation criteria for the final breeding status. In addition, a description of estimation of annual adult survival by genetic analysis is given. We describe the current methodology used in the intensive part of the Golden Eagle monitoring in Norway. Results: We present some results derived from the Norwegian monitoring system and discuss the potential for further analyses. In addition, we highlight aspects in the monitoring of the Golden Eagles where our methods deviate slightly from those applied in other countries and the potential effects of these. Conclusions: Intensive long-term monitoring programmes, such as this, will become increasingly valuable for monitoring the impact of environmental change, both from natural phenomena and from anthropogenic activities. To facilitate comparisons among the Golden Eagle monitoring programmes, detailed knowledge about the various methods applied is important