Influence of breeding on foraging behaviour and diet of Crowned Cranes

Abstract

Gichuki, N. 2000. Influence of breeding on foraging behaviour and diet of crowned cranes. Ostrich 71 (1 & 2): 74–79. This study investigated the effects of breeding on the foraging behaviour and diet of Grey Crowned Cranes Balearica regulorum in the Kitale area, western Kenya. During the study period (July 1994 to June 1996), 86 pairs successfully bred in 290 ha of wetlands. Egg-laying extended from July to November, indicating that the timing of nesting was flexible. Breeding and non-breeding adult cranes as well as immature birds foraged in grasslands, crop stubble, sown fields and wetlands. These habitats were not used according to the available proportions. Breeding commitments restricted parental adults to habitats within their territories while non-parental adults and sub-adults exploited a wider range of habitats. Further, breeding adults and juveniles had smaller foraging range sizes than those of non- breeding adults and sub-adults. Reduced foraging ranges by breeding birds appear to be a trade-off between energy expenditure in self-maintenance and reproduction. The diet of breeding and non-breeding adults was generally similar consisting of graminoid seeds and arthropods. Breeding birds, however, increased consumption of protein rich animal food and non-seed plant material. Selectivity of food items was greatest among breeding adults. Overall, breeding commitments resulted in reduced foraging range and variety of food items available but the major components of the diet remained the same for all adults and immature birds.