Hard to monitor because of the large woods along the border. Frequently taken by Eagle Owls. Very often found as prey of Eagle Owls, thus slightly decreasing. Breeding success decreasing with growing number of breeding pairs - nest ledges sometimes as close together as 2 kms. Still threatened by illegal human persecution - hunters or often wildlife photographers who cannot avoid taking pictures before the nestlings are at least four weeks of age.
Population seems to be stable at the moment.
They respond very well to calling at night and could be quite easily detected. I once found some feathers among Eagle Owl pluckings and called some individuals myself. I suspect the loss of multi-structured landscape and old open barns being the main reasons for decline. Home Intro Location Birds Med.