Conclusion
Using niche models, five raptor species in Kenya were analyzed for their distribution in suitable habitat. Our results indicate that a) of the five species of raptors, the Martial Eagle and Bateleur had the most suitable habitat (or, in our case, a realized niche). In contrast, the southern ground hornbill had a small area of suitable habitat. This indicates the two species’ excellent climate adaptation to a wide range of environments in Kenya. Even though there was a predictor for anthropogenic influence, it is obvious that this predictor had no appreciable impact on the five species’ suitable habitat. b) The majority of raptors are found outside of protected areas, with a high concentration in Kenya’s southwestern and central regions. c) Temperature and precipitation-related variables influenced the habitat suitability of the five species the most. Our results have significant ramifications for Kenya’s management and conservation of raptors. To begin with, raptor management, whether using a single species, multispecies, or ecosystem-based approach, can be aided by identifying raptors’ spatial ranges and overlap with protected areas. Further, as temperature and precipitation in Kenya are altered with climate change, continued work to update spatial ranges will be necessary. Our research on the niche distribution of various species outside of protected areas shows that Kenya is a crucial habitat for raptor species, emphasizing the need for ecosystem-based management both inside and outside of protected areas. Second, understanding the key environmental factors that link raptor distribution may aid in estimating how future climate change will affect the occurrence of species. According to the A1 Global IBA Criterion for globally threatened species, the five priority areas for raptor conservation identified here could be the basis for several additional IBAs.