Foraging Habitat Selection by the Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni During the Different Phases of Breeding and the Post Breeding Period in Central Greece

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the selection of foraging habitats by the Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni during the different phases of breeding and the post breeding season on the Plain of Thessaly, central Greece. Foraging habitat selection by the species was recorded by direct visual observation in 2014 and 2015 during their presence in the area. Habitat selection was analyzed using the Savage selectivity index. The results indicate that Lesser Kestrels were likely to positively select fallow and set-aside land from pair formation to the pre-migratory phase, but with some annual variation. Legumes (Alfalfa) and cereals were also positively-selected crop categories, whereas cotton and other kinds of cultivation were significantly avoided. During the incubation and chick rearing phase, cereals (the most widespread form of cultivation in the area), were positively selected, which highlights the importance of these crops during this critical breeding phase. Prey abundance and availability, which depend on farming practices, seem to be the main reasons for the periodic variation in the species' habitat selection in the area.