A BASE-LINE SURVEY OF LESSER KESTRELS FALCO-NAUMANNI IN CENTRAL TURKEY

Lesser kestrels Falco naumanni were surveyed using repeatable methods in central Turkey in spring 1993 which produced a population estimate of 1500-3500 pairs. Lesser kestrel abundance was significantly related to flat topography and a model predicted a population of 2550 pairs i n habitats dominated by cereal agriculture, dry and wet grasslands and marshes. This is the second largest recorded population in the world and therefore of high conservation value. Evidence suggested the popul ation was declining, probably due to increased pesticide use. Monitori ng of agricultural change using remotely sensed data and repeat bird s urveys is required. Conservation measures should involve the selection of Important Bird Areas; within these, the maintenance of traditional farming methods and conservation of existing semi-natural vegetation should be encouraged.