Nocturnal activity of Griffon Vultures at a feeding site in Kresna Gorge, Bulgaria.

Abstract

Over the last few decades new technologies have made it easier to observe the nocturnal behaviour of raptors and vultures. Yet, few cases of nocturnal feeding of vultures have been documented. The purpose of this study is to provide information about the nocturnal feeding of the Griffon Vulture in Kresna Gorge, Bulgaria. Sixteen cases of nocturnal feeding were observed in the period 2012–2022. The vultures spent a mean of 133.50 ± 195.35 (range 1.00–568.00) minutes on the ground between 19h02 and 07h00. The mean duration of the feeding was 12.00 ± 11.85 (range 1.00–39.00) minutes. Red Foxes, Golden Jackals, and Grey Wolves were also recorded at the feeding site during the study period. Only Red Foxes were observed feeding at the same time as vultures.