RN-Uvatneftegaz (part of Rosneft's oil production complex) announced the completion of its grant-funded research initiative studying white-tailed eagle populations in Southern Tyumen Region. As part of the project, scientists from Tyumen State University created a biotechnical programme aimed at increasing the number of white-tailed eagles and prepared an e-book «Birds of the Southern Tyumen Region».

Ornithological work of such a scale in the south of the Tyumen Region was carried out for the first time. Scientists surveyed a vast area in the south of the region. The total length of road, water and hiking routes amounted to 2,300 km. Following the expeditions, 115 bird species were documented, including 11 species listed in the Red Lists of Russia and the region.

Scientists have established that the white-tailed eagle has inhabited most of the south of the Tyumen Oblast, mainly floodplain forests near large rivers and lakes. During the expeditions, scientists recorded 37 eagles and nesting of seven pairs, which indicates an increasing trend in the population. For the first time it was possible to record the exact timing of egg laying. Ornithologists believe that the total number of white-tailed eagles in the south of the Tyumen Region may be 140-160 pairs.

Scientists have developed a biotechnical programme aimed at increasing the number of white-tailed eagles. Recommendations to reduce anthropogenic impact on birds during the clutch incubation period include establishment of a 400-600 m radius protection zone around eagle nests, maximum preservation of woody vegetation, fire prevention, construction of artificial nesting sites, and environmental education of the region's population.

Based on the results of the project, an electronic map-chart showing the main nesting sites of the white-tailed eagle in the region was compiled, as well as a unique information guide «Birds of the Southern Tyumen Region» The guide includes the most important information about 326 species of birds. It will be useful not only for specialists, but also for all nature lovers.

Preservation of the environment for future generations is an integral part of the corporate culture of Rosneft. The Company is implementing a number of comprehensive programmes for the preservation and restoration of natural resources. Rosneft organises research and cares for many species of rare birds and animals in Russia.

RN-Uvatneftegaz has been implementing grant programmes since 2022. During this time, over 30 projects were submitted by representatives of the environmental and scientific community for grants from the enterprise.

For example, under the grant program this year, scientists developed an electronic information database of rare and protected plants in the Uvat District, which included data on more than 50 plant species. In addition, within the framework of successful cooperation with the enterprise, Tyumen scientists have been working for three years on preserving the population of northern forest reindeer and red-listed birds in the Uvat District.

Department of Information and Advertising
Rosneft
December 25, 2024

Keywords: Environmental news 2024