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Purpose

The Raptor Research Foundation (RRF) is a non-profit scientific society whose primary goal is the accumulation and dissemination of scientific information about raptors (hawks, eagles, falcons and owls). This information is used to inform the public (both scientific and lay) about the role of raptors in nature, and to promote the conservation of raptors whose populations are threatened by human activities. The RRF's membership consists of academic researchers, government agency employees, and others interested in birds of prey. RRF was organized in 1966 and started publishing a scholarly journal in 1967. The number of members has grown to nearly 1,000 and, even though based in the United States, it is an international organization including members in some 50 countries.

The RRF achieves its goals primarily through publication of research reports in The Journal of Raptor Research, but also holds an annual meeting at which research results are presented. The RRF also makes small grants and awards to support raptor studies and to make it possible for students to attend meetings of the society.

The RRF cooperates with similar societies in other countries, and with universities, state, and federal natural resource conservation agencies to accomplish its goals of education and conservation. Such collaborations have led to scientific meetings in other countries, international cooperation in conservation efforts, and the publication of special reports on threatened raptors.

Organization

A board of directors composed of twelve members is elected by the RRF membership. The officers and editors are elected either by the board of directors or the membership at large as dictated by the bylaws. Ad hoc and standing committees are created as necessary

Benefits of Membership

Members receive The Journal of Raptor Research, a quarterly, refereed, scientific journal; the newsletter Wingspan; state-of-the-art reviews published under the Foundation's Raptor Research Report Series; and periodic workshop/symposia proceedings.