Nesting Ecology of Raptors in the Guinea Savanna of Kwara State

Raptors are recognized as top predators and indicators of ecosystem health in savanna landscapes, yet their nesting ecology and population status in the Guinea savanna zone of Kwara State, within Nigeria's North Central geopolitical zone, remain undocumented. This study investigates the nesting ecology of diurnal raptors in three savanna woodland areas of Kwara State during the dry season nesting period. Systematic raptor nest searches were conducted using line transects and elevated observation points, with all active nests mapped using GPS coordinates and monitored for breeding success. A total of 34 active raptor nests from 11 species were located, representing eagles, buzzards, kestrels, and vultures. African fish eagles were the most commonly recorded nesting species near water bodies, while long-crested eagles dominated woodland interior nesting zones. Nest monitoring over eight weeks revealed a breeding success rate of 62 percent, with nest failure attributed primarily to nest tree felling for firewood and agricultural land clearing. The study documents two active nests of Hooded Vultures, a globally endangered species, representing a significant conservation finding. Recommendations include legal protection of identified raptor nest trees, community awareness programs targeting firewood collectors, and the establishment of a raptor monitoring network across the state's savanna landscapes. Keywords: raptors, nesting ecology, Guinea savanna, Kwara State, North Central Nigeria