Breeding long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus in forests of southwestern Iran: Feeding habits and reproductive performance

Abstract

The breeding biology, behavior, and diet of Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus were studied during 2 breeding seasons in forests in southwestern Iran (n = 3 nests) from April to June in 2012 and 2013. All nests faced west to east on the upper edges of cliffs. Eggs were laid during 7-11 March. The clutch size was 3 eggs and incubation period was 31 ± 1 days. Brood reduction was observed in one of the nests (in the first year), and mortality of the smallest chicks occurred during the second week after hatching. The young fledged successfully at 49.5 ± 0.5 days of age and left the nest at approximately 52 ± 2 days. Information about diet during the breeding season was obtained by collecting pellets, prey remains, and video recordings. Mammalian prey, especially Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus), and lizards and snakes made up most of the diet of Long-legged Buzzards.