Conflict in Ukraine Forces Migratory Eagles to Alter Flight Paths

Researchers have discovered that greater spotted eagles have significantly altered their migratory routes to avoid conflict zones in Ukraine. GPS data shows these vulnerable raptors have been making large detours and reducing or completely skipping their usual rest stops since the Russian invasion began.

This behavior change has resulted in eagles taking longer to reach their breeding grounds, leading to increased energy expenditure. “It’s kind of like if you were to run a marathon but had no water breaks. And at the end, someone asks you to run an extra seven or eight miles,” explained Charlie Russell of the University of East Anglia, a co-author of the study.

Published in the journal Current Biology, the study analyzed the migration of 19 greater spotted eagles in March and April 2022, shortly after the invasion, comparing it with data from 65 migrations recorded between 2018 and 2021. The results indicate the eagles traveled an additional 53 miles (85km) on average post-invasion, with one eagle adding 155 miles to its route.

The eagles’ journeys also took an average of 55 hours longer, and their flight speed decreased, particularly among males. Before the conflict, 90% of the eagles made stopovers in Ukraine, but this dropped to 32% afterward, with some areas completely avoided. The greatest deviations were observed in regions with intense military activity. For instance, an eagle named Borovets continued to fly via Kyiv despite heavy fighting, while another, Denisa, altered its path after encountering explosions near the city.

Russell highlighted that these detours were likely made in real-time response to sporadic events, emphasizing that birds cannot “check the news” to plan their routes.

The impact of the conflict extends beyond delayed migrations. The researchers warned that the increased travel time and energy expenditure could delay breeding and reduce the survival chances of the young due to less available prey.

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