Influence of Habitat and Nest-Site Quality on the Breeding Performance of Lanner FalconsFalco biarmicus

摘要: Abstract. Site quality may influence breeding performance especially in raptors showing strong territory fidelity as predicted by the site-dependent population regulation hypothesis. Thus, occupancy of nest-sites is non-random, indicating a preference certain territories, apparently higher quality. During four seasons (2003–2006), we recorded rate and number young fledged from Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus feldeggii eastern Sicily, Italy. Breeding sites with different rates showed significant differences environmental attributes, mainly altitude. A generalised linear model revealed effect slope nest-site on mean fledgling per successful pair. In addition, nest are main predictors for differentiating cliff selection Lanners much more competitive Peregrine Falcons peregrinus. Finally, our results suggest crucial role of...