Extensive predator persecution caused by population crash in a game species: The case of red kites and rabbits in Spain

Abstract

The European rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus, an important game species in Spain, has declined sharply since the arrival of haemorrhagic disease in 1988. As a consequence of this decline, it appears that illegal and extensive persecution of predators has increased. We have assessed the impact of this persecution on red kites Milvus milvus.Around 90% of the populations studied have declined during the last 3-10 years, and the species' range has been reduced since 1980, particularly in high rabbit density areas (those most valuable for hunters). Currently, stable or increasing populations of red kites are located in areas of low rabbit density. Their abundance in areas of high rabbit density is similar to that recorded during the 1970s. when, after the spread of myxomatosis over Spain, government-sponsored campaigns of vermin extermination were carried out. Although red kites cannot be considered important predators of rabbits, they are disproportionally sufering the effects of human persecution, because of their susceptibility to shooting and poisoning, and a lack of understanding among hunters. We discuss the management strategies that might be used during population crashes of game species to avoid unjust@edpersecution of predators.

The Role of Economic and Social Factors Driving Predator Control in Small-Game Estates in Central Spain

“…The control of nongame predator species and the use of other methods (e.g., poisoning) are strictly prohibited according to the legislation (although sometimes there are exceptional permits to control other species, such as some rodents). However, illegal predator killing by hunters has been frequently documented in central-southern Spain (Villafuerte et al 1998, Márquez et al 2012, and indeed it is considered among the main causes explaining the decline of some endangered predators. For example, the analysis of 267 records of nonnatural mortality of the Spanish imperial eagle over a 16-yr period (1989-2004) showed that near 40% of the deaths were caused by predator control, and almost all of them occurred in central-southern Spain (González et al 2007).…”

Can Cage-Trap Performance in Capturing Red Foxes Be Improved by Using Different Baits and Scent Attractants?

“…Nevertheless, the illegal removal of some predators of conservation concern, including raptors and carnivores, has frequently been reported (e.g. Villafuerte et al 1998, Márquez et al 2013.…”

The effects of a wind farm on birds in a migration point: the Strait of Gibraltar

“…During the last century, bird populations have been affected by different kinds of disturbances and impacts due to man-made structures such as highways (Fajardo et al 1998), power lines (Ferrer et al 1991;Janss and Ferrer 1998;Penteriani 1998), radio / television towers (Stahlecker 1979;Smith 1985;Nelson and Curry 1995), wind farms (Orloff and Flannery 1992), glass windows (Klem 1990a(Klem , 1990b, and due to human activities such as poisoning (Harmata et al 1999) and illegal shooting (Villafuerte et al 1998). The increasing mortality of birds by human structures has generated an important literature evaluating the impact of these elements on bird populations and developing the application of protective measures (Klem 1990b;Fajardo et al 1998;Alonso and Alonso 1999).…”