Once reduced to only a few hundred individuals in a single small area of the Dominican Republic, the Ridgway’s Hawk is now showing strong signs of recovery thanks to two decades of dedicated fieldwork, science-based management, and deep community engagement. Supported by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF), a global partnership co-financed by the Global Environment Facility, The Peregrine Fund, and local partners have delivered measurable progress. Since 2012, the population has more than doubled, breeding success has increased by 179% through targeted parasite management, and the species’ range has expanded through carefully planned translocations to new habitats. The program has also reduced human–hawk conflict, strengthened community stewardship, and increased awareness of the ecological importance of raptors and the ecosystems they depend on.
Dominican biologist Carlos Suárez, who coordinates the program, shared his first-hand insights into the recovery journey and the lessons it offers for locally-led conservation, community engagement, and biodiversity impact across the GEF partnership.
Opening Remarks
- Celine Marie Christine Augereau ep Coisy, Senior Biodiversity Specialist, GEFSEC
Remarks
- Evan R. Buechley, Vice President of Conservation, The Peregrine Fund
Moderator
- Sarah Wyatt, Senior Biodiversity Specialist, GEFSEC
Speakers
- Carlos Suárez, Program Coordinator, The Peregrine Fund, Dominican Republic
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