Mission

"Conservation through research to ensure stable wild populations of the various species of Asian birds of prey. Raptors are the Litmus Test of the viability of the varied habitats they occupy and are represented as symbolic emblems of power in cultures throughout the world.

We shall endeavour to augment existing knowledge of raptor biology and ecology, and through scientific research, work towards maintaining suitably large diverse habitats, preserve biological diversity and prevent any extinction.

Disseminate knowledge gained to ornithologists, pertinent Government Agencies and, through education and awareness, the public at large."

The Foundation strives to encourage and foster the study and prioritise conservation of it raptors in the country not only by increasing knowledge base but also providing a solid platform for junior research associates and interns to develop their own skill-sets, learnt under their respective field investigators, to enable them to earn their degrees in wildlife science, and to go on to build on their own strengths independently.

Raptor Research and Conservation Foundation (RRCF) was incorporated in 2012, with a VISION

That the Foundation leads the raptor conservation in India to ensure that raptors thrive in their natural environs and fulfil their roles in the web of life.

RRCF strives to achieve its vision by:

• Setting up a core team of raptor scientists and researchers and building capacity of bright young researchers with a passion for raptors to undertake both long-term and short-term projects.
• Collaborating with reputed scientific institutions and conservation organisations in India and abroad. Improve our systems of methodology, data collection in the field, analysis and management.
• Being a strong votary for protection of raptor habitats in India and strengthen advocacy with the Government, policy makers and stakeholder sand communities through sound scientific research.

Projects

The Foundation (RRCF) started with its Small Grants Program with one-year grants and thereafter moved on to funding projects with large budgets. Researchers funded by the Foundation are working on the ubitiquous Black Kite and its migratory cousin, race linneatus in and around the capital city of Delhi since 2013. Another long term project is on the IUCN-listed, Endangered Forest Owlet. The study extended to other sympatric owls in Melghat Tiger Reserve, Maharashtra.

RRCF was also a partner organisation involved in stopping the mass hunting of the migratory Amur Falcons in Nagaland. Up to 1,20,000 Amur Falcons were massacred and there was intense trade of 'meat' in the neighbouring States. RRCF supported a small NGO who played a vital role in starting 'Eco-Clubs' involving children, rallying community elders, fishermen, traditional hunters, the Church and of course, sending missives to the State Government and forest department authorities. Today, the killing has virtually stopped and is heralded as a conservation success. RRCF helped to bring about a change in attitude of the local people who now consider these beautiful small falcons as visitors to their land.