Work

Birds of prey of a semi-arid ecosystem in Falcón State, Venezuela: Diversity and ecological patterns

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Notes are presented on the species richness, diet, and reproduction of birds of prey in a semi-arid ecosystem of northwestern Venezuela, based on nine months of daytime observations. A total of sixteen resident and two migratory species, belonging to four orders and five families, were recorded. Nests of eight species were observed and described. The diets of five species were determined through analyses of pellets and other prey remains collected around nests. The Easten Cottontail Rabbit, Sylvilagus floridanus (J. A. Allen, 1890), was the most frequent prey item. Additionally, negative interactions between rural communities and raptors are reported, including the use of pesticides by local residents to control species perceived as threats to domestic animals.

Source: Anartia

DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.18111922

Authors: Saavedra, Luis A., Rivas, Belkis A., Aranguren D., Carla I.

Institutions: Universidad de Los Andes, "Dunarea de Jos" University of Galati

Language: English

Topic: Avian ecology and behavior

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Life on land, Zero hunger

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: Idea Wild