Raptor distribution in relation to landscape composition in semi-arid Mediterranean habitats

1. Breeding sites of raptors were studied in relation to land-use and edge habitat using two different scales in semi-arid Mediterranean landscapes in south-eastern Spain. Habitat relationships were analysed using Generalized Linear Models. 2. The proportion of forest cover at a small scale was the best predictor f or all species. At a larger scale, the proportion of forest cover was also a good predictor, and the amount of edge habitat between forest and extensi ve agriculture was a very good predictor of booted and short-toed eagle den sities. 3. Models for sedentary species of raptor were similar using both scales wh ereas trans-Saharan migrant raptors seemed to be more sensitive to larger l andscape features that included longer edges between forest and extensive a griculture, 4. Habitat mosaics created by forestry and traditional farming were especia lly important for Mediterranean raptors. Strengthening of the Agri-environm ental Regulation (2078/92) will be necessary to compensate for agricultural intensification proposals promoted under the Common Agricultural Policy (C AP).