This passage is discussing the diversity and distribution of bird species in the Pune region of India. The passage mentions that a count conducted in 1979 recorded a density of 2.6 birds per hectare in the city of Pune, and that a recent checklist of birds in the city and its surrounding area lists a total of 290 species that have been recorded in the past 15 years. The passage also mentions that the region has a variety of habitats, including forests, more open habitats, and wetland habitats, and that these habitats support a diverse population of birds, including 34 species of birds of prey and 6 species of owls. The passage notes that some nesting sites for raptors have been located in the region, but also mentions a high mortality rate for eggs and chicks, particularly among forest eagles, and a declining number of sightings of raptor species in open habitats. The passage also mentions the importance of preserving these habitats and the need for further research on the impacts of human activities on the local bird population.