Background Europe’s steppe birds are currently the most endangered category of vertebrates, with up to 60% of species threatened to varying degrees. Spain’s Andalusia region supports the EU’s richest diversity in steppe birds. However, according to the Red List of Threatened Vertebrates in Andalusia, 82% of non-passeriform steppe birds and 43% of passeriform birds in the region are endangered. This is a higher percentage of endangered species than for any ornithocenosis in a forest, water or mountain ecosystem. Objectives The main objective of this project is to improve the conservation status of steppe birds in Andalusia. Priority species for the project’s support include the great bustard, little bustard, Montagu's harrier, stone Curlew, black-bellied sandgrouse, collared pratincole, European roller and Little kestrel. Actions will target: The provision of food and shelter; Reduction of mortality risks; Increased awareness of conservation considerations; and The introduction of technology to improve/implement management plans for endangered species. Expected results include: The involvement of at least 120 private agricultural landowners in the conservation of steppe birds on the basis of 120 co-operation agreements; At least a 75% reduction in great bustard deaths caused by harvesting; A 75% reduction in deaths of Montagu's harrier caused by combine harvesters during the breeding season; A 90% reduction in the bird mortality rate from collisions with power lines, and a 60% reduction in bird deaths caused by collisions with livestock fences; An increase by three-to-five in the number of breeding colonies of lesser kestrel; Increased productivity of certain steppe-land bird species through the provision of food and elimination of threats; Improved public awareness about key conservation considerations for the target species; Establishment of new rural development initiatives related to steppe-land birds; and The creation of a new nature tourism product.