Impact of Bonelli's Eagle on Rabbits and Partridges
Author Information
Author(s): Moleón Marcos, Sánchez-Zapata José A., Gil-Sánchez José M., Barea-Azcón José M., Ballesteros-Duperón Elena, Virgós Emilio
Primary Institution: Empresa de Gestión Medioambiental-Consejería de Medio Ambiente, Junta de Andalucía, Granada, Spain
Hypothesis
What is the predation impact of Bonelli's eagle on rabbit and partridge populations?
Conclusion
Bonelli's eagles have a very low impact on rabbit and partridge populations in the study area.
Supporting Evidence
- Bonelli's eagle consumed an average of 304 rabbits and 262 partridges during the breeding season.
- Predation rates were very low, ranging from 0.3% to 2.5% for both prey species.
- The study area supports intense hunting activity, which may influence prey populations.
- Bonelli's eagle is considered endangered in Europe and is primarily affected by human persecution.
Takeaway
Bonelli's eagles eat some rabbits and partridges, but not enough to really affect their populations.
Methodology
The study estimated the predation impact of Bonelli's eagle on rabbit and partridge populations during breeding and non-breeding seasons in SE Spain.
Potential Biases
Potential biases in estimating predation rates due to sampling methods.
Limitations
The study may not account for all ecological factors affecting prey populations.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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