A long-term conservation initiative: artificial nests for Falco rusticolus (Falconidae) in Southern Yamal, North-West Siberia

Falco rusticolus (hereinafter – gyrfalcon) is a threatened species affected by climate change and increasing human activity in the Arctic. The availability of suitable nesting sites is a critical factor for its successful breeding. To address the apparent shortage of natural nests, artificial nesting structures can be a valuable conservation tool. This paper presents the results of a long-term conservation initiative aimed at supporting a rare species, specifically the construction and monitoring of artificial nests for gyrfalcons on the Yamal Peninsula, Russia. From 2010 to 2019, we installed 43 artificial nests on trees in the middle course of the River Shchuchya basin. Gyrfalcons occupied the nests on 23 occasions, while other bird species used them seven times. We used various nest designs and tray types. The occupancy of artificial nests was checked annually from 2011 to 2024, resulting in 367 inspections, and repair and maintenance were performed if needed. Annual inspection of the nests revealed a major challenge, namely securing the nest frame and tray material to the base. We identified the most durable and effective nest design as a nest frame attached to the nest base of the artificial nest construction and a nest-tray of tightly-fitted turf sod «bump». These constructions demonstrated superior durability, remaining intact and functional for more years than other designs. Our results can be useful to develop similar conservation projects for gyrfalcons across northern regions.