A novel method using camera traps to record effectiveness of artificial perches for raptors

Abstract

Agricultural areas can benefit from the reduction of rodents by raptors, yet many croplands and pastures do not provide adequate perching structures needed by raptors to hunt effectively. Many artificial raptor perches have been constructed as a solution to this deficiency, however, monitoring the benefits of these perches has proved challenging. We developed a method using artificial perches and camera traps mounted on poles that allows for 24-hour monitoring of perch utilization. We tested the new method in an agricultural area in northern California and demonstrated its ability to facilitate accurate species identification and to quantify raptor use and activity. Three of the six raptor species observed at the site utilized the artificial perches: American kestrels (Falco sparverius), red-tailed hawks (Buteo jamaicensis), and red-shouldered hawks (B. lineatus). We did not document any rodent predation events from the perches; but we did observe American kestrels using perches to hunt for invertebrates. Overall, we found that using camera traps mounted on poles can successfully monitor artificial perches and can be easily used to study the effectiveness of hunting perches for raptors in agricultural areas.

Keywords

• griculture
• artificial perches
• buteo jamaicensis
• buteo lineatus
• camera traps
• falco sparverius
• foraging
• pests
• raptors
• rodents