Predation by large falcons on wintering waders on the Banc d'Arguin, Mauritania

Abstract

During October 1988, 3 lanner falcons Falco biarmicus, 2 peregrines F. peregrinus and 2 Barbary falcons F. pelegrinoides were present. Hunting areas of species and individuals overlapped without territorial aggression. Hunting activity concentrated around high tide, and was directed at roosting waders. Hunting success was 18.6% in 43 individual hunting flights with known outcome. Dunlins Calidris alpina were the preferred quarry. Juveniles were more vulnerable. -from Author