It is hard to believe that the A Rocha Pembina Valley raptor migration project in Manitoba has completed 10 years of counting birds of prey. With the help of numerous folks, over 99,000 birds of 17 species were counted. No doubt some of these raptors were the same birds retracing their spring migration yearly, but none-the-less, their numbers demonstrate the significance of the Pembina Valley as a première migration corridor in Manitoba for raptors moving north in spring.

The project has entailed more than just counting raptors. It has opened the door for the general public and many school children to learn about these magnificent birds. Over the years, three Raptor Awareness Days brought the public in touch with conservation organizations and face to face with live raptors. A Rocha volunteers visited schools to tell students about the importance of birds of prey and their habitat. Two internet raptor-related videos were produced as well as nearly 5,000 pocket field guides to raptors were distributed in southern Manitoba.

Although the field counting has come to an end, the analyses and reporting have yet to be completed. Letting the science and conservation community know about the results of this project is important and will be accomplished through the publishing of scientific articles. Also, the Pocket Field Guide to Raptors of the Pembina Valley Region will be republished and made available to students and the general public.

A Rocha heartily thanks those folks who helped with the counting efforts in the Pembina Valley and those individuals and organizations who provided financial support.

To learn more please read the final newsletter: Raptor Review newsletter 2014