Predator-prey interaction between drones of Apis mellifera carnica and insectivorous birds

Abstract

Large offers of food usually do not remain unexploited in nature. For that reason several mechanisms have evolved to counteract predation, such as congregating in masses or producing a repellent substance. We investigated whether drones are preyed upon in any specific way by two swallow species, Hirundo rustica or Delichon urbica, in their drone congregation areas. Our results clearly showed that the birds preyed upon drones extremely sporadically and not in a specific way. Hence, the results have decisive consequences for apiculture, especially for the evolution of drone accumulation in congregation areas. © 2008 INRA DIB-AGIB EDP Sciences.