Nest-site selection by the Bonelli's Eagle (Hieraaetus fasciatus) in Granada (southeastern Spain).

Full article

Published:

Volume 43(2), December 1996. Pages 189-197.

Language:

Spanish

Original title:

Selección de hábitat de nidificación por el Aguila Perdicera (Hieraaetus fasciatus) en Granada (SE de España).

Keywords:

Hieraaetus fasciatus, nest-site, selection, Southeast Spain.

Abstract:

The factors limiting Bonelli's Eagle's nesting distribution in Granada (SE Spain) were studied. Habitat teatures of 74 cliffs were characterised, including cliffs with nests (35) and cliffs without nests (30), while considering that the species does not breed in areas where the January mean temperature is lower than 4 ºC. Abandoned cliffs (9) were also studied. For each cliff 18 variables were quantified evaluating habitat humanisation, physiography, intraspecific competition with the Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), temperature and vegetation. The presence of Golden Eagle is an important limitation, especially in those areas with low cliff availability, although the intolerant character of Golden Eagles to human presence favours Bonelli's Eagle in some areas. Bonelli's Eagle tolerates well habitat humanisation, but there is a tendency to avoid the most altered areas. The variables which best describe the breeding habitat were the distance to the nearest village and the topographical irregularity. Cultivations were a negative factor, unlike natural vegetation. There were not differences between occupied cliffs and abandoned ones.