Distribution of nocturnal birds (Strigiformes and Caprimulgidae) in relation to land-use types, extent and configuration in agricultural landscapes of Central Italy

Abstract

Understanding the role of land-use patterns in determining the distribution of nocturnal birds has important implications for the conservation of these species and for land management. One important step for effective conservation is to develop statistical models to assess how the probability of birds’ presence can be influenced by land-use types in order to support decision making in conservation planning at the landscape or regional scale. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of extent and configuration of land-use types in determining the distribution of some nocturnal birds of prey (Strigiformes) and the European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus in agricultural landscapes. We surveyed six nocturnal birds (Eurasian Scops Owl Otus scops, Little Owl Athene noctua, Barn Owl Tyto alba, Long-eared Owl Asio otus, Tawny Owl Strix aluco and European Nightjar) in 123 listening stations located in nine protected areas of southern Tuscany, Central Italy. Nocturnal birds were present in 97 % of the stations, where variables relative to the extent and configuration of land-use types were measured. The probability of Tawny Owl presence increased with increasing forest cover, the probability of Little Owl presence increased with increasing amount of arable land, whilst the probability of Eurasian Scops Owl and Long-eared Owl presence increased with increasing amount of open areas. The model of European Nightjar showed that the probability of presence increased with increasing amount of forest edge and scrubs. Our results suggest that heterogeneous agricultural landscapes may favour the coexistence of several nocturnal birds, since the different species are each associated with different land-use types.