Accipitriformes and Falconiformes in an area of Eastern Veneto, Italy NE
A breeding population of birds of prey has been monitored in an extended area of
the plains of Eastern Veneto (Northeastern Italy) from 1993 on. The number of species
has increased as well as the number of breeding couples. Currently six species
of the Accipitridae and four species of the Falconidae are breeding in the study area.
The Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus, Buzzard Buteo buteo and Hobby Falco subbuteo
populations have increased significantly and are proofed breeders of recent
colonisation. The Montagu’s Harrier Circus pygargus and Red-footed Falcon Falco
vespertinus are present in small numbers. The size of the occupied territories/couple
and density of breeding couples are analyzed over the years.