This important project was inspired by co-founder and executive director Ryan Phelan’s visit to Tanzania in late 2023. Globally in decline, the secretary bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is an endangered raptor species found in grasslands and savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa.

It is the sole member of its family, Sagittaridae. Because no genetic resources exist for this species, the Italian non-profit Eurafrica Conservation Projects aims to fill this gap, with support from Revive & Restore. This organization performs in situ conservation work in Tanzania and South Africa, in partnership with African universities and scientists.

As a population genomics study, the goal is to sequence the genomes of 30 individuals to quantify genetic diversity, inbreeding, and deleterious alleles. This information will help determine the genetic health of secretary bird populations and inform whether translocations and wildlife corridors need to be included in species recovery.

One reason for this species’ observed decline is high juvenile mortality. In addition to samples from adults obtained from Tanzania and South Africa, tissue samples will also be taken from deceased chicks, providing a unique opportunity to investigate the genetic basis for juvenile mortality. Finally, the project and its resources will be leveraged as a platform for future conservation management in the area.