Australian Raptors- low density?

[Adam James Searcy <>]

Hello COG,

        A brief inquiry;  I have been working in the National Botanic Gardens since mid-August, and either myself or my boss Tonya Haff are in the gardens (usually both of us) 6-7 days per week, for 6-8 hours per day.  We have both noted what seems to be a much lower raptor density in this area than expected, when compared with similar areas in North America (where we both hail from) and elsewhere (areas which also have several different sized Accipiter species, as are present in this area, and numerous other raptor species).  There are abundant prey species in the gardens, and it seems that they could/should support at least a pair or two of Sparrowhawks, a Brown Goshawk or two, associated juveniles, etc.  While I have observed these species in the gardens and elsewhere, they are definitely less conspicuous than I would expect, both in the gardens and elsewhere.  Note that we are out doing observational work with small passerines, and they or the surrounding Honeyeaters etc. are generally vocal enough to alert us of any nearby aerial predators (and we are looking about for such things anyway...)  

     Any comments on this situation?  Also, have raptors undergone declines in this area and Australia in general?  I'm sure the Australian Bird Atlas will have more broad-scale information on trends in raptor populations, but information from anyone with extensive local experience would be welcome.  Anyone with comparative experience in both N America and here would obviously have a better grasp on the situation.  Cheers,

Adam Searcy
Macquarie