Feeding ecology of the long-eared owl (Asio otus) in northern Italy: is it a dietary specialist?

摘要: The feeding ecology of the long-eared owl (Asio otus) in Stupinigi Natural Park, northwestern Italy, was investigated for 1 year. Owls fed seasonally on three main prey categories. Mice (Murinae) constituted bulk diet from September to March, with voles (Arvicolinae) and birds as secondary prey. During breeding season, became preeminent, constituting about half ingested. Dietary overlap between overwintering period season low. Food-niche breadth low autumn winter but increased markedly May August. A comparison our results those eight other European studies showed that Italy has a more varied diet. Spain (southern Europe) is based at least groups differs described areas central northern Europe, where only species are Our show an adaptable predator expands its food niche th...