Harpy eagles are the Americas' largest raptor and require intact Amazonian forest. Deforestation and nest disturbance are the primary welfare and conservation threats.
Harpy eagle welfare is threatened by habitat loss and disturbance at the nest. Amazonian deforestation eliminates the large-tree nest sites they require, forcing birds into suboptimal habitat or eliminating them from landscapes entirely. Ecotourists and photographers approaching active nests cause adults to flush, exposing eggs or chicks to temperature extremes and predators. Even well-intentioned nest observation can cause nest failure if approached too closely. Community conservation programs that provide nest site protection and economic benefits for communities near nesting eagles reduce both hunting and disturbance while creating conservation support.