S. Fattorini, Temporal and spatial variations in darkling beetle predation by kestrels and other raptors in a Mediterranean urban area, BIOLOGIA, 56(2), 2001, pp. 165-170
The aim of this research is to analyze raptor predation on darkling beetles
in the Mediterranean urban area of Rome. Urban Rome harbors a number of da
rkling beetle species, many of which are successful city-colonizing species
. Both the kestrel and little owl prey on many soil dwelling darkling beetl
e species, especially in ruderal and built-up areas. In contrast, the tawny
owl spends a great deal of time in wooded areas, preying on arboreal speci
es. Kestrel predation on darkling beetles in a city-center ruderal site sho
wed a decreasing diversity from summer to winter, in accordance to the term
ophilic preferences of such insects. In general, darkling beetles may repre
sent a significant food source for urban kestrels in Mediterranean areas.