Aegypius Monachus Research Articles

Modelling nesting habitat as a conservation tool for the Eurasian black vulture ( Aegypius monachus) in Dadia Nature Reserve, northeastern Greece

The Eurasian black vulture ( Aegypius monachus) is a globally endangered species, vulnerable in Europe and endangered in Greece. We modelled its nesting preferences in Dadia reserve, northeastern Greece using logistic models at multi-scale level combined by Bayesian statistics. Compared with the random sites, the vultures nested at trees with greater diameter (DBH), lower height, and lower total number of trees around the nest tree, steeper slopes and greater distance from forest roads. Our results indicate that conservation and management guidelines for black vultures must aim: (1) to preserve old, isolated mature trees in the reserve, (2) to maintain the zones of strict protection as vulture sanctuary, including most of the suitable nesting habitat, (3) to protect the apparently suitable but still unused habitat in the rest of the reserve from disturbance and logging, (4) to monitor any changes in habitats and use our models to evaluate and predict their effect on vulture nesting in the reserve.

Conservation management for Orthoptera in the Dadia reserve, Greece

The diversity patterns, the ecological structure and the typical species of the orthopteran assemblage in the Dadia reserve are investigated. The reserve was designed to protect the black vulture ( Aegypius monachus) and other raptors. A total of 39 orthopteran species were found, including Paranocarodes chopardi, a pamphagid species with very restricted distribution. All species can be represented in a network of six complementary habitats, including open oak woodlands, agricultural fields separated with hedges, humid grasslands, as well as serpentine grasslands. The buffer zone of the reserve is far more important for Orthoptera conservation than the core areas, which host most of the black vulture nests. Management focusing on raptors is in general compatible with conservation of Orthoptera. We suggest the maintenance of forest openings in the buffer zone, the maintenance of forest heterogeneity, the enhancement of periodical livestock grazing, and the use of nine indicator species and Paranocarodes chopardi in the reserve monitoring program.

EFFECTS OF FORESTRY AND OTHER LAND-USE PRACTICES ON THE CONSERVATION OF CINEREOUS VULTURES

Managing forests to meet both production and conservation goals is a growing challenge around the world, particularly as forest areas devoid of human intervention continue to shrink in area. There is a general lack of information about the response of long-lived vertebrates to silvicultural treatments due to the difficulty of carrying out long-term studies that can disentangle the effects of forestry from other factors influencing the distribution and numbers of large organisms. We examined the responses of the Cinereous Vulture, Aegypius monachus, to two divergent forestry practices in two colonies where ∼10% of the European population breeds: (1) long-term exploitation of mature forest in high mountains (highland colony), and (2) clear-cutting and regeneration in lower altitude mountain areas (lowland colony). Distribution patterns of Cinereous Vultures were determined mainly by forestry and human-related activities, as well as by orographic variables, whereas forest structure had a lesser influence. Ecological factors such as orography and forest structure had a greater influence in the distribution and abundance of vultures in the highland area, whereas the influence of variables associated with human disturbance was stronger in the lowland area. Vultures in the lowland area consistently selected areas with a low incidence of forestry activity to breed. A major fraction of the variability of breeding success was not explained by the factors considered, although human-caused disturbance and rainfall during the nestling period had negative effects on breeding success in the lowland colony. The negative effects of forestry activities may persist for a long time, even after the direct impacts of these activities have diminished. In order to effectively conserve breeding areas, it may be necessary to protect suitable habitat from human activity near nests. In addition, halting illegal poisoning is a strict necessity to guarantee the conservation of colonies. Social conflict between conservationists and forest managers who employ local people in nonproductive forestry tasks could easily be resolved by conducting silviculture-related practices in areas that are unimportant for conservation and directing employment toward activities related to nature conservation.

Effects of Forestry and Other Land-Use Practices on the Conservation of Cinereous Vultures

Effects of Forestry and Other Land-Use Practices on the Conservation of Cinereous Vultures

Blood chemistry and haematocrit of the black vulture ( Aegypius monachus)

We determined the values of haematocrit and blood chemistry of the black vulture ( Aegypius monachus) in Extremadura (Spain). We analysed 57 nestlings, five feral adults, seven captive individuals in their first year and five captive adults. Free-living adults had a higher haematocrit and lower calcium and alkaline phosphatases concentrations than captive birds. There were differences in haematocrit and in the concentrations of glucose, uric acid, total proteins, alkaline phosphatases, phosphorus and aspartate aminotransferase between nestlings and young in their first year and adults. The estimated age of the nestlings was significantly correlated with haematocrit, plasma glucose and total protein concentrations. The physical condition of nestlings was significantly correlated with plasma alkaline phosphatases levels.

Population trends of Black VultureAegypius monachusin Dadia Forest, north-eastern Greece following the establishment of a feeding station

SummaryDadia Forest in north-eastern Greece is well known for its diversity of breeding birds of prey. In 1980, the area was declared a wildlife reserve. One of the most endangered species at that time was the Black VultureAegypius monachus. To help the population of Black Vultures a feeding station was established in 1987. A monitoring programme from 1984 until present indicates that the operation of the feeding station has coincided with an increase in the numbers of Black Vultures wintering in Dadia by nearly threefold, an increase in the number of breeding pairs from 10 to 21, and an increase in breeding success from 40% to a peak of 95%. A slight faltering in the continued rise in the numbers of Black Vultures in Dadia is attributed to a poisoning event in 1995.

The use of (GACA)4 PCR to sex Old World vultures (Aves: Accipitridae)

A PCR method was developed employing a single primer (GACA)4 to sex Black vultures (Aegypius monachus), Lappet‐faced vultures (Torgos tracheliotus), and Griffon vultures (Gyps fulvus). Using the (GACA)4 primer several PCR products were generated. One or more PCR products displayed a sex‐specific pattern, i.e. they were only present in females (probably corresponding to repetitive DNA on the W chromosome) but absent in males. The sex ratio of 85 Griffon vultures from Spain was almost 1.

ISIS and studbooks, very high census correlation for the North American zoo population: A reply to Earnhardt, Thompson, and Willis

AbstractEarnhardt et al. (1995) ask (1) if the census data of ISIS are accurate enough for North American regional zoo collection planning, and (2) can the “raw” zoo records presently available from ISIS substitute for a formal studbook and be used directly for genetic and demographic analysis. To check census, they compared ISIS Abstracts with summary SSP© reports in AZA's Annual Report on Conservation and Science (AZA‐ARCS), assumed that they represented counts for the same population, and found only a moderate correlation (r = 0.835). We repeated their analysis and closely examined the 15 species with apparent census differences greater than 50. We find that most of the census differences arise because the two sources are not counting the same population. When nonzoo specimens are removed from census counts for just these 15 species, the overall correlation between ISIS and AZA‐ARCS (for the full 68 species) rises to 0.974. We conclude that ISIS census data are reasonably accurate for the North American zoo population. Earnhardt et al. (1995) find “raw” ISIS data unsuitable for genetic and demographic species management. This conclusion came from comparing 10 ISIS species datasets to the respective North American regional studbooks. We re‐examined the two taxa with the most reported discrepancies. For gorillas, studbook numbers on ISIS are indeed confused—in large part because multiple, conflicting studbook numbers are being assigned by different studbook keepers to individual specimens. For cinereous vultures, the large number of birth date discrepancies arise from records intentionally altered in the studbook, which substitutes arrival date for estimated or unknown birth dates of wild‐caught specimens. Whereas this studbook's minimum age convention may well be useful for certain analyses, we find that the ISIS data accurately reflects the holding zoo's records. We generally agree with Earnhardt et al. (1995) that at present, “raw” ISIS data for most species needs examination and “clean up” before they can be used for detailed genetic management. We believe that it would be extremely valuable and cost‐effective and continue improving zoo records and ISIS, so that the information is immediately useable for many management purposes. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.

A redescription of Aegypoecus brevicollis (Burmeister, 1838) (Ischnocera: Philopteridae)

After studying some material belonging to genus Aegypoecus Clay & Meinertzhagen, 1939 captured on the head and neck of a European black vulture Aegypius monachus, the authors have identified these specimens as Aegypoecus brevicollis (Burmeister, 1838). Morphobiometric data on adults (both males and females) are given, and the designation of a neotype for this species is proposed.

Isolation of mycoplasmas from a buzzard, falcons and vultures

Thirteen mycoplasmas were isolated from a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), two saker falcons (Falco cherrug), a buzzard (Buteo buteo), a black vulture (Aegypius monachus), and two griffon vultures (Gypsfuhus). Six of them could be identified: Mycoplasma gallinarum (three isolates), M. columborale (two isolates) and M. anatis (one isolate). The remaining seven isolates did not react with antisera against the known avian mycoplasma species in the indirect immunofluorescence and growth inhibition tests. They may represent new species.

Foraging time in the Cinereous VultureAegypius monachus:seasonal and local variations and influence of weather

More time is available for foraging by Cinereous Vultures Aegypius monachus in summer, but in winter they maximize flight time by starting close to sunrise. Vultures nesting in mountains begin to fly earlier than those in plains because of wind producing ‘slope-lift’. Rain impedes flight for whole days in winter. In general, time devoted to foraging may depend upon both food availability and soaring conditions.

High-altitude respiration of falconiformes. The primary structures and functional properties of the major and minor hemoglobin components of the adult White-Headed Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis, Aegypiinae).

The primary structures of the hemoglobin components Hb A and Hb D of White-Headed Vulture (Trigonoceps occipitalis) are presented. The globin chains were separated on CM-Cellulose in 8M urea buffer, the components by FPLC in phosphate buffers. The amino-acid sequences were established by automatic Edman degradation of the globin chains and of the tryptic peptides in liquid phase and gas-phase sequenators. The sequences differ from those of European Black Vulture by only one mutation in the alpha A-chains (alpha 137). The alpha D-chains and the beta-chains are identical. This means that for the first time identical minor components in birds have been found. An updated list of identical globin chains is presented. Hb D exhibited a higher oxygen affinity than Hb A. At pH 7.5 and 38 degrees C P50 values of 0.80 and 0.64 kPa (6.0 and 4.8 mm Hg), respectively. Both hemoglobins showed similar Bohr factors displayed a pronounced sensitivity to inositol hexakis(phosphate), which increased P50 values of Hbs A and D to 4.0 and 3.6 kPa (30 and 26 mm Hg), respectively. The molecular and physiological significance of the findings is discussed with special reference to oxygen transport by hemoglobin at high altitude.

High Altitude and Hemoglobin Function in the Vultures Gyps rueppellii and Aegypius monachus

Functional characteristics of the stripped composite hemoglobins (Hbs) of the vultures Gyps rueppellii and Aegypius monachus that can fly at extremely high altitudes, and of component Hbs of G. rueppellii are reported, in relation to influences of pH, temperature and inositol hexaphosphate. G. rueppellii Hbs A, A' and D represent a sequence of increasing oxygen affinity, which is opposite to earlier results on avian Hb components, but correlates with two alpha-chain substitutions that predictably affect oxygen affinity. The homo- and heterotropic interactions in oxygen binding are related to primary structures of the constituent polypeptide chains to trace molecular adaptations to high-altitude respiration, and to physiological factors (pulmonary hypoxia and hypocapnia, body temperature shifts, and lung and nasal gas and heat exchange) to discern their possible survival value at altitudes of 11,300 m.

High-altitude respiration of birds. The primary structures of the major and minor hemoglobin component of adult goshawk (Accipiter gentilis, Accipitrinae).

The primary structures of the hemoglobin components Hb A and Hb D of the adult Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) are presented. The globin chains were separated on CM-Cellulose in 8M urea buffer. Component separation was achieved by FPLC-chromatography on a TSK SP-5PW column in phosphate-buffers with a linear gradient of NaCl. The amino-acid sequences were established by automated Edman degradation of the globin chains and of the tryptic peptides in liquid-phase and gas-phase sequenators. The sequences are aligned with those of European Black Vulture (Aegypius monachus). Phylogenetic aspects and physiological properties for Goshawk hemoglobin are inferred from sequence data. A detailed evaluation of the oxygen-binding properties has been carried out during a prolonged study of the noteworthy ability of Falconiformes to cope with extremely low oxygen partial pressures, and will be the subject of a forthcoming paper.

A karyological study of Accipitridae (Aves: Falconiformes), with karyotypic descriptions of 16 species new to cytology

Karyotypic descriptions are given of 16 species of Accipitridae new to cytology, viz. Accipiter novaehollandiae, Aegypius monachus, Aquila rapax, Circaetus gallicus, Circus aeruginosus, C. cyaneus, C. pygargus, Geranoaetus melanoleucos, Gyps bengalensis, G. rueppellii, Haliaeetus leucogaster, H. leucorhyphus, Lophoaetus occipitalis, Necrosyrtes monachus, Stephanoaetus and Torgos tracheliotus. For reasons of comparison the karyotypes are included of 5 species that have been previously studied. viz. Gypaetus barbatus, Haliaeetus albicilla, H. leucocephalus, H. vocifer and Pernis apivorus. All these species share the typical characteristics of the accipitrid karyotype, a moderate diploid number (66–72), the absence of large macrochromosomes, the presence of only 6–12 microchromosomes and a high number of mediumsized to small macrochromosomes. Differences exist in the numbers of biarmed and acrocentric autosomes and in the size and shape of a pair of typical satellited marker chromosomes.

Black Vultures in Mallorca

This report of the author's six-week study of the European black vulture in Mallorca suggests that this endangered species has declined still further in the island and now numbers about 40. He believes that disturbance and direct persecution could be having a serious effect on such a small population, but food may be a factor and needs closer study. The FPS aided this study with an Oryx 100% Fund grant.

Rare and new records of birds from the Ryu Kyu Is.

New specimen records of Aquila heliaca (Iriomote I.), Aegypius monachus (Miyako I.), Ciconia ciconia (Okinawa I.), Diomedea immutabilis (Kume I.) and Grus vipio (Okinawa I.) (by Takara), and 65 sepecies to be added as specimen or sight records to avifaunae of islands of the Ryu Kyu Chain (Okinawa to Yonaguni), as the result of field and specimen survey during January 12 and February 17, 1969 (by Kuroda), are reported. Brief notes on status of a few species are added. Anthus cervinus (Okinawa to Yonaguni), Motacilla flava taivana (Yonaguni) and Phylloscopus inornata (Okinawa to Yonaguni), for example, were common wintering species, the second species having been found foraging in association with grazing cows. Turdus pallidus was very common on all islands except Iriomote. Endemic Dendrocygna javanica and Spilornis cheela (Saphaeopipo noguchii has been treated in other article) are decreasing owing to increasing hunting. Butastur indicus which concentrate on Miyako I. on migration in great numbers had been so much caught by islanders by special perching devise that has greatly decreased recently. The search for Halcyon miyakoensis was made based on remour of its rediscovery but with no definite evidence, though further care should be kept on this species.Only Miyako I. is flat possibly with stable air conditions and this may be a reason why rather many atragglers of large gliding birds, including hawk, eagle, crane or stork, have been found and caught. Rarities are often shot against game law and protection of native as well as these migrants is needed.

The Measurement of an egg of the Altai Cinereous Vulture

An egg of Aegypius monachus chincou, laid in the aviary of Kyôto Zoo on March 21, 1947, measured 95×68 mm.

Neomycin as a Treatment for Bovine Mastitis

Despite the now well recognised impact of diclofenac on vultures across the Indian subcontinent, this non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) was registered in 2013 for livestock treatment in Spain, Europe’s main vulture stronghold. We assessed the risk of exposure to diclofenac and nine other NSAIDs in avian scavengers in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal) after the onset of diclofenac commercialization. We sampled 228 livestock carcasses from vulture feeding sites, primarily pig (n = 156) and sheep (n = 45). We also sampled tissues of 389 avian scavenger carcasses (306 Eurasian griffon vultures, 15 cinereous vultures, 11 Egyptian vultures, 12 bearded vultures and 45 other facultative scavengers). Samples were analysed by liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (LCMS). Seven livestock carcasses (3.07%) contained NSAID residues: flunixin (1.75%), ketoprofen, diclofenac and meloxicam (0.44% each). NSAID residues were only detected in sheep (4.44%) and pig (3.21%) carcasses. Fourteen dead avian scavengers (3.60%) had NSAID residues in kidney and liver, specifically flunixin (1.03%) and meloxicam (2.57%). Flunixin was associated with visceral gout and/or kidney damage in three (0.98%) dead Eurasian griffons. To date, diclofenac poisoning has not been observed in Spain and Portugal, however, flunixin would appear to pose an immediate and clear risk. This work supports the need for well managed carrion disposal, alongside appropriate risk labelling on veterinary NSAIDs and other pharmaceuticals potentially toxic to avian scavengers.