Biotic and Abiotic Factors Affecting the Feeding Behavior of the Black-tailed Godwit

Abstract

Abstract The feeding and vigilance behavior of the Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) were studied in an intertidal area of the Ria de Huelva, Spain, during the autumn migration. During diurnal low-tide periods, feeding was the predominant activity (80-85% of birds sampled). No significant negative relationship was observed between conspecific density and vigilance variables, and this may be related to the increases observed with group size in the intraspecific aggression and probe rates. The godwits showed greater vigilance in the presence of Black-headed Gulls (Larus ridibundus), possibly because of the kleptoparasitic activity of this species. The godwits ingested more worms during the period around low tide and fewer prey items when the air temperature was rising. The feeding rate did not decrease with the conspecific density.