Raptors on migration face illegal shooting and trapping in Mediterranean countries that kill millions annually.
Raptors shot during migration experience gunshot trauma that may not be immediately fatal. Shot birds fall and die over hours or days from hemorrhage and shock. Leg-hold traps used for live capture damage legs and cause prolonged stress before collection. The organized persecution of raptors in some Mediterranean countries reflects cultural traditions that are changing slowly under legal pressure and economic incentives from bird tourism.