Species selected to represent the “Raptor Concentration Areas” assemblage for the North Slope study area include gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus), peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus tundrius), and rough-legged hawk (Buteo lagopus). These three species share similar habitats in arctic Alaska, but differ in seasonal distribution and prey preferences. Primary habitats include cliffs in riparian areas along river drainages and major tributaries, shale banks, mud or sand banks, scree and talus slopes, and steep escarpment faces. This species assemblage was nominated as a Terrestrial Fine-Filter CE because of the role raptors play as top trophic-level predators.
