The raptors (Falconiformes) of Kharkov city: features of ecology and interspecific relations

Abstract

Twelve species of raptors from the families of Accipitridae and Falconidae were registered in the Kharkov city and its suburb; among them 8 species were registered during breeding season. Peregrine falcon, Goshawk, Sparrowhawk and Merlin spend the winter in the city regularly. Most common breeding raptors in the city are Common Kestrel, Sparrowhawk and Goshawk. These species prefer urban quarters for the hunting even near agriculture landscapes. The raptors find rich forage reserve within the limits of the city, mainly synanthropic birds and rodents. It has been ascertained that activity time of birds is a niche difference. Decrease of interference competition and antagonism between different species and age/sex groups of raptors is the result of the difference in the tactics and the time of hunting as well as the selectivity of prey.

Spatial and Temporal Changes in Falconiformes and Strigiformes Nutrition: Causes, Significance, Consequences

“…Daily changes. Based on visual observations in Kharkiv, it is established that kestrels are active mainly in the morning (9:00-12:00) and in the evening (16:00-19:00), and at this period they hunt predominantly sparrows, rarely murine rodents (Viter, 2011). Interestingly, they are often hunted at twilight and even in the dark.…”