La Tour du Valat

Institut de recherche pour la conservation des zones humides méditerranéennes

Titre :	Nest sites and breeding ecology of the Misafuera Rayadito (Aphrastura masafuerae) on Alejandro Selkirk Island, Chile
Auteurs :	I. Hahn, Auteur ; U. Romer, Auteur ; R. Schlatter, Auteur
Type de document :	Article
Dans :	Journal of Ornithology (145(2) APR 2004)
Article en page(s) :	93-97
Langues:	Anglais
Résumé :	The first nest sites of the endemic Masafuera Rayadito (Aphrastura masafuerae) are described, the first one being found on 16 December 1992. Masafuera Rayaditos breed in small natural holes in steep rocks, the nest being hidden within the rock and not visible through the 3 cm-wide entrance. All nest sites were located in the summit region of Alejandro Selkirk Island above 1,200 m altitude, characterised by fern stands. Nesting has been reported from early December to late January. Feeding frequency increases only slightly during nestling time. Both parents feed the nestlings in similar proportions. During the daily round no regular variation in feeding frequency occurs, although it is often higher during the first hours after sunrise. In general, it decreases strongly when a Masafuera Hawk (Buteo polyosoma exsul) is present close to the nest site. It hunts intensively on Rayaditos, both adults and juveniles. Habitat destruction and predation pressure have caused the Masafuera Rayadito to be the most endangered bird species in Chile (total population c. 140 individuals). More detailed studies on its breeding ecology are urgently needed, especially on reproductive success.

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