Influence of farming activities in the Iberian Peninsula on the winter habitat use of common crane (Grus grus) in areas of its traditional migratory routes

摘要: Abstract Farming activities can influence bird habitat and wintering patterns. Changes in the use of common crane ( Grus grus ) were related to changes land on this species' traditional migration route Western Palaearctics. The study was conducted Orellana area (Extremadura, SW Spain), most important route, where continued availability natural food resources (acorns, bulbs, invertebrates) represents a more balanced diet than agricultural alone. presence crops such as corn Zea mays L.) is, however, not critical factor area, since two types resources, agricultural, are available same period time. increase dedicated irrigated crops, especially rice Oriza sp.), affected growth numbers cranes area. In past peak December positively correlated acorn production, whereas is now January–February, coinciding with rice-field stubble feeding places. Dehesas (Mediteranean scrub), cultivated or not, may replace existence intensive farming activity combination land-uses suggested be cause these changes.