Record of melanism in the hook-billed kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus uncinatus), with a note of predation on the african snail (Achatina fulica) from south of Ecuador

Abstract

This note describes the uncommon presence of an individual melanic (dark morph) Hook-billed Kite (Chondrohierax uncinatus uncinatus) in southern Ecuador. In addition the depredation of the giant African snail (Achatina fulica) is documented. The manipulation of the snail, its extraction of the shell, and swallowing while the individual posed in a branch of tree (Triplaris Cumingiana), surrounded by cacao crops (Theobroma cacao) is detailed. Five shells of giant African snail with perforations attributable to the Hook-billed Kite were discovered. This registry confirms the presence of the dark morph within the province in Ecuador. It is suggested to the Hook-billed Kite as a biological controller of the African snail.

Keywords

• adaptación alimenticia
• especie invasiva
• polimorfismo.