Publication: Differential spatial use and spatial fidelity by breeders in Bonelli’s Eagle (Aquila fasciata)
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Publication Date
2016-10
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Springer
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Abstract
In recent years, long-term studies based on movement monitoring tools have improved our knowledge about spatial ecology and home range behaviour of endangered species. In order to study individual spatial–temporal variations in size, use and fidelity of home ranges and other spatial parameters (kernel at different levels), and determine the influence of sex and different annual periods in these variations, 17 adult breeders (of both sexes) of an endangered territorial raptor, Bonelli’s Eagle (Aquila fasciata), were equipped with GPS satellite transmitters and tracked over a 7-year period in Aragón (northeast Spain). The home range (kernel 95 %) of these eagles showed high individual variations as well as other spatial parameters (kernels 75, 50 and 5 %). No interannual variations for the same individual were found. Females changed home range size and use during the year, it being different in the breeding season. Home range fidelity was high for all individuals (overlap 76.18 %) over the three annual periods in all years. Nevertheless, fidelity to nesting areas was low (only 30 %) during the same periods. This work highlights the importance of long-term monitoring studies to elicit information on home range behaviour for developing accurate conservation guidelines. Maintenance of home range size and fidelity across years assures that the adoption of any conservation management plan would have a lasting impact over time. In addition, protection zones should be increased to critical areas (kernel 75 %) and restriction of specific activities causing disturbance during the breeding season should be implemented.