Meet the Raptors of the NCA
By Kateri Bilay
Did you know that the Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey National Conservation Area is the only national conservation area whose boundaries are determined by scientific research? It's true! The boundaries of the NCA reflect the range of the prairie falcon, one of the most iconic species found in the area.
As the name suggests, the 485,000 acres of sagebrush steppe and canyonland in southwest Idaho were set aside for the purpose of protecting birds of prey. Throughout the year, twenty-four species of raptors can be seen in the conservation area, sixteen of which are known to breed here. Not only does the area boast a diversity of species, but also abundance: the NCA holds some of the densest populations of nesting birds of prey in the world.
A Landscape made for Raptors
Through the sagebrush of the high mountain desert, you may at first see what looks like an endless sea of low brush and grass, until all of a sudden the expanse of the Snake River Canyon opens up a crack in the earth. Below, you can see the Snake River, of which eighty-one miles run through the conservation area.
This mix of canyonland and expansive sagebrush steppe provides plenty of places for raptors to nest, along with ample area to forage and hunt for prey like ground squirrels and jack rabbits. It's a paradise for iconic species like the golden eagle and red-tailed hawk.
Coming Soon: Raptor Species Spotlights
We'll be taking a closer look at some of the raptor species you can see in the NCA in coming editions of our newsletter. For each focal species, we'll share helpful identification tips, fun facts, and information about when and where you can expect to find these birds within the conservation area.
Our hope is that you'll join us on these deep dives, then feel inspired to visit the NCA to see these beautiful raptors for yourself!
Share Your Photos
Have photos of raptors in the NCA? Share them with us, and they might be featured on our social media or in an upcoming newsletter!
For more information about visiting the NCA, check out the BLM's visitor guide.