The Kestrel: Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of an Open-Land Predator

The Kestrel: Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of an Open-Land Predator

Widespread across open lands and cities of Europe, Africa, and Asia, the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is one of the most abundant and studied birds of prey. This book brings together and synthesises the results of research on kestrels for professional ornithologists and scientists that seek to consolidate a vast body of literature. The Kestral is also a reference for those readers who may not have the depth of scientific knowledge to navigate new fields of scientific enquiry. It examines many aspects of the species’ biology, from the reproductive strategies to the behavioural and demographic adaptations to changes of environmental conditions. It also discusses the roles of physiology and immunology in mediating the adaptability of kestrels to the ongoing environmental changes with a particular focus on contaminants. This volume presents new and exciting avenues of research on the ecology and behaviour of the common kestrel.

Contents: 

1.  Systematics and evolution of kestrels
2.  Feeding ecology
3.  Habitat use
4.  Breeding density and nest site selection;
5.  Colourations, sexual selection and mating behavior
6.  The reproductive cycle: from egg laying to offspring care
7.  Ecological physiology and immunology
8.  Environmental toxicology
9.  Movement ecology
10.  Conservation status and population dynamics.

Author Biography: David Costantini is Professor of Conservation Physiology at the Museum National d’Histoire Naturelle in Paris, France. His main research interests have focussed on the physiological mechanisms mediating life-history variation and functions in animal ecology and conservation. Giacomo Dell’Omo is President of Ornis italica, a non-profit Italian association for research and education on environmental issues. His main research interests have focussed on the behaviour, ecology, and ecotoxicology of birds. He is currently involved in projects relating to many species including kestrels as favourite.