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

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