What defines a non-native raptor?

A non-native raptor is defined as a species that does not have subspecies that occur naturally in the wild in the U.S. This is significant because non-native raptors may be found in various areas due to introductions or other human activities, but they do not have a natural, established presence in the ecosystem of North America.

This definition emphasizes the importance of native versus non-native species in the context of ecological balance and conservation. Raptor species that are considered non-native could potentially impact native wildlife, habitat dynamics, and local ecosystems differently than those raptors that are indigenous to the area.

In contrast, options such as raptors merely being found in California, nesting in the U.S., or being covered under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) are broader and do not specifically address the concept of native status. These criteria do not accurately capture the essence of what qualifies a raptor as non-native in an ecological context.