Page 13 - UKZN Foundation AR 2024

conservation. Through close collaboration with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife officers, NGO Wildlife Rehabilitation, and the local communities of Durban and KZN, his efforts have bridged the gap between scientific research and real-world conservation action.
At the core of the project lies a multifaceted approach, encompassing both scientific inquiry and community engagement. McPherson’s publications, including twelve research papers on Crowned Eagles and popular magazine articles in multiple languages, reflect the breadth and depth of his research endeavours. From investigating breeding ecology to understanding prey availability and habitat use, each study contributes to a deeper understanding of urban raptor dynamics.
One of the project’s most significant
undertakings involves the deployment of
advanced tracking devices on breeding
adults. These Ornitela OT-50 trackers, capable
of high-resolution tracking and behaviour classification, provide invaluable insights into the movement patterns and hunting behaviours of urban Crowned Eagles. Led by PhD student Ms Varalika Jain, this initiative aims to unravel the intricate relationship between Crowned Eagles and their urban environment, shedding light on how these apex predators adapt to human activities and threats.
An example of one month of GPS tracking data of a male Crowned Eagle in the Moseley suburb near Pinetown.
‘We aim to deploy another 10 devices. To achieve this, we aim to fundraise R100,000 and appeal to possible donors to assist us,’ said McPherson.
‘In Durban, Crowned Eagles exhibit unique breeding behaviour, with half of the pairs breeding successfully every year, contrary to the usual biennial breeding cycle observed elsewhere. This
Camera trap image: “Yellow T8” delivers the hind limbs of a Blue Duiker to the chick at Tanglewood Private Nature Reserve, Kloof.
UKZN FOUNDATION ANNUAL REPORT 2024 11