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The taxonomic classification of a falcon population found in the Mongolian Altai region in Asia has been heavily debated for two centuries and previous studies have been inconclusive, hindering a more informed conservation approach. Here, we generated a chromosome-level gyrfalcon reference genome using the Vertebrate Genomes Project (VGP) assembly pipeline. Using whole genome sequences of 49 falcons from different species and populations, including "Altai" falcons, we analyzed their population structure, admixture patterns, and demographic history. We find that the Altai falcons are genomic mosaics of saker and gyrfalcon ancestries, and carry distinct W and mitochondrial haplotypes that cluster with the lanner falcon. The Altai maternally-inherited haplotypes diverged 422,000 years before present (290,000–550,000 YBP) from the ancestor of sakers and gyrfalcons, both of which, in turn, split 109,000 YBP (70,000–150,000 YBP). The Altai W chromosome has 31 coding variants in 29 genes that may possibly influence important structural, behavioral, and reproductive traits. These findings provide insights into the question of Altai falcons as a candidate distinct species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb) in feather samples of nine bird's species (n = 65) were determined from southeastern areas of Iran, Hamun International Wetlands. Hg concentrations were ranged from 0.40 to 3.00 mg/kg dry wt and from 0.38 to 1.76 mg/kg for primary and secondary feathers, respectively. Furthermore, Pb concentrations were ranged from 1.43 to 4.10 mg/kg and from 1.28 to 3.65 mg/kg for primary and secondary feathers, respectively. Deposition of metals varied significantly among the primary and secondary feathers of systematic category (families) for Hg and Pb (p < 0.001). It was found that there is a significant difference in feather Hg and Pb concentrations across species (p < 0.001) with highest concentrations in saker falcon (Falconidae) (Hg = 3.00 mg/kg and Pb = 4.10 mg/kg, primary feather) followed by little owl (Strigidae). Grey francolin (Phasianidae) contained the least amount of Hg (0.40 mg/kg) and Pb (1.43 mg/kg) in primary feather. The results showed that the highest concentrations of heavy metals were related to carnivores. Fish predators, omnivores, and insectivores were examined at the next level of metal concentration, with herbivores having the lowest concentrations of lead (1.43 mg/kg) and mercury (0.40 mg/kg). Birds with an open grasslands feeding strategy had the highest mercury and lead concentration. The average value for Pb was on the border of harmful effects (4 mg/kg). The results of this study indicate that mercury levels are lower than the threshold level for reproductive and behavioral harm (5 mg/kg). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For three species of captive breeding falcons—gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus), saker falcon (F. cherrug), and peregrine falcon (F. peregrinus)—a universal system of genetic identification based on multilocus microsatellite genotypes has been tested. The estimates of relatedness in the species groups of birds from breeding centers are analyzed. A set of 13 nuclear microsatellite loci makes it possible to reliably identify individuals and clarify whether individuals belong to related groups, and in some cases, it makes it possible to recognize interspecific hybrids. The results of this study can be used in breeding and introduced into the practice of forensic molecular genetic examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial nests are a commonly used management technique to increase the breeding population and/or productivity of birds with nest site limited populations. We compared nest survival of saker falcons breeding in artificial nests erected in a flat steppe landscape with those breeding in natural nests on rocks and cliffs in adjacent hills of central Mongolia. We found no significant difference in daily nest survival during the egg and nestling stages of the breeding cycle. Nest survival varied across years and was higher at artificial than natural nest sites, primarily because of higher survival rates during the egg stage at artificial nests. However, fledgling productivity was not significantly different although artificial nests produced an average of 3.2 fledglings compared to 2.3 at natural nest sites. We found no significant differences in offspring sex ratios and fledgling mass at artificial and natural nest sites. Provision of artificial nests can increase the range, size and productivity of saker falcon breeding populations, a globally endangered species subject to high mortality and trapping for falconry. This management technique can be used for incentive-driven conservation initiatives, whereby sustainable harvest quotas can be generated from demographic models based on parameters derived from a managed and monitored population breeding in artificial nests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Between 1 January and 31 December 2010, a total of 144 captive female saker falcons ( Falco cherrug) were diagnosed with Haemoproteus tinnunculi infection at Fahad Bin Sultan Falcon Center, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The highest prevalence of infection (total 34.03 %) was recorded during March and April, i.e., towards the latter part of winter and rainy season, while the lowest prevalence was recorded during June to August (total 4.17 %), which represent the peak of the dry summer months. H. tinnunculi infection was associated with an increase in the splenic size. The infection also produced a strong eosinophilic response. Other hematological changes recorded in some of the infected birds included leukocytosis, heterophilia, and anemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As top predators, falcons possess unique morphological, physiological and behavioral adaptations that allow them to be successful hunters: for example, the peregrine is renowned as the world's fastest animal. To examine the evolutionary basis of predatory adaptations, we sequenced the genomes of both the peregrine (Falco peregrinus) and saker falcon (Falco cherrug), and we present parallel, genome-wide evidence for evolutionary innovation and selection for a predatory lifestyle. The genomes, assembled using Illumina deep sequencing with greater than 100-fold coverage, are both approximately 1.2 Gb in length, with transcriptome-assisted prediction of approximately 16,200 genes for both species. Analysis of 8,424 orthologs in both falcons, chicken, zebra finch and turkey identified consistent evidence for genome-wide rapid evolution in these raptors. SNP-based inference showed contrasting recent demographic trajectories for the two falcons, and gene-based analysis highlighted falcon-specific evolutionary novelties for beak development and olfaction and specifically for homeostasis-related genes in the arid environment-adapted saker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The oocysts of Caryospora cherrughi sp. n. were described from the feces of the saker falcon, Falco cherrug, collected from the falcon market in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. The prevalence of infection was 21.4 % (15/70). The majority of the oocysts examined had completed sporulation within 64-84 h at 24 ± 2 °C. Sporulated oocysts are ovoid in shape, measuring 32.1 × 29.3 (30.7-34.5 × 27.7-29.8) μm; shape index (L/W) is 1.1 (1.04-1.27) μm. The oocyst wall is smooth and bilayered. Micropyle, polar granule, and oocyst residuum are absent. Sporocysts are ellipsoidal, measuring 24.1 × 19.6 (23.0-25.5 × 18.7-20.5) μm; with a smooth single-layered wall, but there is no Stieda body. The sporocyst residuum is present as numerous small granules. Sporozoites are banana-shaped, blunt at one end, and slightly tapered at the other, each with a large single refractile body. C. cherrughi sp. n. is the third caryosporian species described from F. cherrug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An adult female saker falcon ( Falco cherrug) presented to our falcon medical and research hospital with intermittent regurgitation, dyspnea, and squawking sound. Physical, radiographic, and endoscopic examination revealed a markedly enlarged thyroid gland. Hematological and blood biochemical results were within normal ranges apart from a slight increase in creatinine phosphokinase and aspartate aminotransferase. Cytological evaluation of fine-needle aspirate from the enlarged gland showed few RBCs and cellular debris. Neither inflammatory nor neoplastic cells were found. The condition was diagnosed clinically as unilateral thyroid hyperplasia, a condition which has not been previously reported in saker falcons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inadequately controlled trade in gyr and saker falcons has lead to saker falcons becoming endangered and both species being CITES listed. However, the phylogenetic relationship between these nominal species is unresolved preventing their molecular identification and limiting the availability of data for conservation management. This study amplified DNA from the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) gene and nine nuclear microsatellite markers to highlight previously unobserved genetic differences between these two putative species. Results show that gyr and saker are paraphyletic using COI and therefore indistinguishable using this marker. However, the microsatellite allele frequency differences suggest that it is possible to assign an unidentified bird to its correct species with 98% accuracy. The results suggest the two species should be monitored separately to ensure short term conservation success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species composition, number, species diversity, and evenness of nesting bird communities were surveyed in 2001 and 2002 in north-east Hungary. The survey was aimed at foraging birds. A higher number of species and species diversity was observed in the oxbows compared to that of the eupotamon-type areas, and was correlated with the more luxuriant vegetation covering the water surface. The species evenness value of the oxbows was lower than that of the flowing river. The number of species and species diversity in riparian areas covered with trees were higher than those in areas covered only by bushes. There was a negative correlation between evenness and the diversity of species for habitats covered with water, and habitats covered with trees and bushes along the banks. The following highly protected bird species nested in the study areas: black stork ( Ciconia nigra), lesser spotted eagle ( Aquila pomarina), saker falcon ( Falco cherrug), red-footed falcon ( Falco vespertinus), and corncrake ( Crex crex). Compared to the total bird fauna of the investigated area, the highest ratio of aquatic bird species was present in the oxbow areas covered with aquatic vegetation. Considering the role of aquatic birds in material and energy cycles, three main species groups were distinguished: the material-transporting group (highest number of specimens); the bioturbing group (lowest number of specimens); and the decomposition-accelerating group (intermediate numbers). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the morphological variation of the saker Falco cherrug, a traditional and valued bird of Arabic falconry. Conservation efforts for the bird; Natal origins of birds most preferred by Arab falconers; Consideration of the captive bred falcons which are used for Arab falconry.