|
Résumé :
|
Capsule Rocky platforms provide better nesting conditions than sandy beaches. Aim To investigate the breeding ecology of Collared Pratincoles Glareola pratincola in two different coastal Atlantic habitats in northwest Morocco. Methods Collared Pratincole nests were monitored in two coastal Atlantic habitats (sandy and rocky habitats) during two years (2003 and 2004). Breeding phenology, colony size and density, clutch size, egg dimensions, nest survival rates and breeding success were determined and compared between habitats. Results Breeding started earlier compared with colonies in Europe. Nest density, clutch size, nest survival rates and breeding success were higher in the rocky habitat compared with the sandy one. In the latter habitat nests suffered higher losses owing to human disturbance. Conclusion Rocky platforms confer better nesting conditions than sandy beaches. Beach sites suffer relatively higher human disturbance, resulting in lower nest survival rates. There is a need for urgent management and conservation efforts aimed at reducing the negative impact of humans on these birds along the Moroccan Atlantic coast.
|