Background Lake Fertő and the swamps of Hanság have a rich fauna, including threatened species listed in Annex I of the Birds Directive. Bird species in the National Park and Natura 2000 network site include great bustard (Otis tarda) and several birds of prey; there are about 10 pairs of Saker falcon (Falco cherrug) and 6-7 pairs of Eastern imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca). A previous LIFE project (LIFE09 NAT/HU/000384) showed that rodents are a very important part of the diet of Saker falcon, with the European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) accounting for more than 25% of the bird’s prey. A number of rodent species are also very important for the Eastern imperial eagle. However, rodent populations are decreasing, resulting in increased conflict between raptors and pigeon fanciers and hunters. Reasons for the loss of rodent habitat include fewer grazing animals on the land and the loss of grassland to urbanisation and solar power facilities. Also, farmers continue to kill rodent species indiscriminately as vermin. Objectives The RAPTORSPREYLIFE project aims to reinforce ongoing efforts to strengthen the European core populations of Saker falcon and Eastern imperial eagle by stopping the decline of the existing small mammals’ populations that serve as their prey. The specific objectives are to: Act as a demonstration project to develop best practices for increasing the populations of raptor prey species; Increase public awareness of birds of prey, especially the importance of their small mammal prey; Demonstrate how to adjust different nature conservation priorities when carefully considering the habitat demands of Southern birch mouse (Sicista subtilis trizona) and blind mole rat (Nannospalax (superspecies leucodon)), which are strictly protected species in Hungary. Expected results: A better understanding of the factors involved in the decrease of small mammal populations; The decrease in numbers of the main food sources of Saker falcon and Eastern imperial eagle stopped; A genetic and health survey started and gene banks established for small mammal species; The fragmented small populations of native rodents improved; Potential habitats reconstructed and about 2 000 European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) reintroduced from strong viable populations, with fragmented populations connected by ‘stepping stones’; European Spermophilus citellus Species Action Plan implemented; and Public awareness of raptor prey species raised.