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eagle is found throughout the region. Nest sites are predominantly on • cliff faces although occasional tree nests do occur within the region. The kestrel is the most common of the falcons, occurring throughout the region in all habitat types. Prairie falcons are locally common within the region, occurring where cliff faces provide nesting sites adjacent to large green areas used for hunting. Members of this order are important predators, occupying positions at the top of the food chain. Rodents, rabbits, small birds, insects, and carrion are important items in the diet for one or more of these birds of prey. There are nine members of the order Gallifornes in the region (BLM 1979). All are classified as upland game birds by the DOW. Five species (chukar, pheasant, Gambel's quail, mountain quail, and white-tailed ptarmigan) have been introduced. There is some doubt whether Mountain • quail have ever become established from releases near Gateway, Colorado. Gambel's quail and ringnecked pheasant are both restricted to agricul- tural areas or riparian habitat in the lower valleys. Chukar were in- troduced in the 1950's and have become established in rough canyon lands throughout much of the region below 6,000 feet. White-tailed ptarmigan have been introduced in several alpine areas. Most if not all wild turkey populations in the area are a result of transplants dating back as far as the 1930's. Populations are scattered throughout the region where moun- tain shrub and aspen types occur. The Uncompahgre Plateau, Plateau Valley, and North Fork Valley support the greatest populations. Native grouse make up the last three members of the Galliformes. The blue grouse is the most common and widespread, occurring throughout the region above 7,000 feet. The sage grouse and sharp-tailed grouse have not fared as well as the blue grouse. Both species now occur in 47