The grant was created in honor of Oscar Beingolea, who dedicated his life to the study and conservation of raptors across the Americas. Beingolea's work spanned multiple countries, focusing on raptor breeding biology, migration, and conservation, emphasizing species like the Peregrine Falcon and Bicolored Hawk. His contributions included pioneering falconry methods, breeding rare raptor species, and extensive field research aimed at preserving raptors and their habitats. The mission reflects a commitment to continuing his legacy through supporting research that addresses ecological and evolutionary questions about raptors.
The Oscar Beingolea Raptor Research Grant supports field research on raptors within Latin America, the Guianas, and the Caribbean. The grant provides up to $4,000 in financial support, also covering page charges for publishing research findings in the Journal of Raptor Research. Applicants must be the primary authors of their research papers, ensuring the work aligns with the grant's purpose. While the number of grants issued yearly is flexible, the total funding will not exceed $4,000, aiming to foster a broader understanding and conservation of raptor species in the designated regions.