© 2007 Paschalis Dougalis....Science Art-Birds

Title: Ecological Importance of Rocky Mediterranean Islets
Species: Eleonora’s Falcon (Falco eleonorae), Audouin’s Gull (Larus audouini), Shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis desmarestii),.and Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus)
Artist: Paschalis Dougalis (for further information, click on the artist's name)
Image size: 20 X 30 cm
Media: gouache
Date: 2007

The artist notes,"Remote rocky islets in the Aegean Sea provide the ideal breeding ground for a number of species including the Eleonora's Falcon. During late summer-autumn breeding, these majestic falcons benefit from a diet rich in migratory birds that use the islets as a stop to rest!"

These Islets in the Aegean host the bulk of the world population of this highly valued falcon. Unfortunately, human activities--especially those associated with tourism and sailing--may extend into these formerly isolated areas. Some authorities note that poachers and hunters--especially when accomanied by dogs--take a toll on nests and chicks. Others, however, emphasize that the falcon's breeding grounds are still isolated from most hunting pressure, and attriute the loss to the decreasing availability of migrating prey during breeding. Increasing use of pesticides in wintering grounds are the major threat today, along with the likely effects of global climate change on migration.

Dougalis adds, "The image presented here was a commissioned work, supporting conservation efforts to the protect the islets ecosystem."