A Harris’s hawk (Parabuteo unicinctus), a protected species in Mendoza, was rescued this Monday morning at the Instituto Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Pompeya, located in the City of Mendoza.
The bird had entered the building and was unable to exit on its own. After a coordinated operation by the Dirección de Biodiversidad y Ecoparque along with 911, the specimen was released into a suitable environment and confirmed to be in good health.
The Species
The Harris’s hawk, also known as the common hawk, is a medium-sized bird of prey widely distributed in America, from the southern United States to Patagonia. It is characterized by:
- Dark plumage with brown and reddish tones.
- Long and robust legs.
- Great ability to adapt to rural and urban environments.
In Mendoza, it plays a key ecological role as a natural pest controller, contributing to the balance of urban and peri-urban ecosystems.
Recommendations for Sightings
The Ministry of Energy and Environment highlighted that the presence of these birds in urban areas is often associated with the availability of food and green spaces, such as parks and groves. Therefore, their appearance should not be interpreted as an alarm but as part of the natural dynamics of the environment.
Authorities recommended:
- Do not feed or capture these birds.
- Supervise children in areas with abundant trees.
- Walk small pets always on a leash and on clear paths.
- Avoid aggressively scaring or attacking the animal.
- In case of interaction, clean the affected area and consult a health or veterinary professional.
- Report unusual situations to 911, via email at [email protected], or by phone at 261 7503417.
Conservation in Argentina
The protection of protected species is essential to maintain ecological balance and preserve the country’s unique biodiversity. Protected areas and National Parks fulfill essential functions:
- Protection of biodiversity: they safeguard endangered species and unique ecosystems.
- Ecosystem services: they ensure clean water, climate regulation, pest control, and pollination.
- Research and education: they allow scientific studies on adaptation and survival in the face of climate change.
- Local development: they promote nature tourism and generate sustainable employment.
- Umbrella species: protecting birds of prey and charismatic mammals helps conserve other associated species.
- Climate change mitigation: the preservation of forests and wetlands is key for carbon capture and flood prevention.
The rescue of the Harris’s hawk in Mendoza is an example of how quick and coordinated action can protect valuable species for environmental balance.
Beyond the specific operation, the event reinforces the importance of native fauna conservation and the need for society to adopt responsible behaviors towards urban biodiversity.
