Update on the status of Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug) in Armenia

The update on the status of Saker Falcon in Armenia suggests breeding of seven to nine pairs in the central and southern regions of the country where the birds occupy semi-deserts and mountain steppes. The breeding area of the species is estimated to be 724 km², and the extent of occurrence is estimated to be 9,056 km². The conservation status of the species in Armenia can be evaluated as Critically Endangered, according to IUCN criteria. The greatest potential threat includes the illegal killing of the species by pigeon breeders. Other threats, such as illegal capture for falconry and illegal killing for trophy do not have a significant influence. The pressure of electrocution requires further investigations. Based on our current results and assessment of the Saker Falcon’ conservation status in Armenia, we recommend several conservation suggestions and measures such as the change of the species’ conservation status, discovering all the Saker’s nests and including them in protected areas, managing the detrimental behavior of the pigeon breeders, training for Environmental Protection and Mining Inspection Body and Armenian Customs Service, raising awareness of hunters, and monitoring raptors’ electrocutions.