The food spectrum of sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus L.) and kestrel (Falco tinnunculus L.) in the Chřiby Upland

Abstract

In 2006–2008, mapping the sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus L.) and kestrel (Falco tinnunculus L.) occurred in the SE part of the Chřiby Upland. At the same time, the food spectrum of these birds of prey was determined during nesting periods. The area under monitoring represented about 25–30 km2.In each of the species, food was always monitored in a period from February to July at four nesting localities. The food spectrum was analysed by the direct observation of birds of prey, according to leftovers of food in the surroundings of nests and in nests of the predators. In Accipiter nisus, the food spectrum consisted of birds (85 %), mammals (3 %) and other animals (12 %). Turdus merula was the most frequent prey. In Falco tinnunculus, the food spectrum consisted of birds (18 %), mammals (76 %) and other animals (6 %). Microtus arvalis was unambiguously the most frequent prey.

Keywords

• <i>Accipiter nisus</i>
• <i>Falco tinnunculus</i>
• food spectrum