Behavioural Ecology of Western Palearctic Falcons

This monograph is a comprehensive guide to the biology and ecology of Palaearctic falcons, covering various aspects such as genetics, evolution, morphological peculiarities, reproductive strategies, competition, resource exploitation, dispersal patterns, communication, and sociality. It aims to provide a scholarly curated source of reference for both academics and nature lovers, with a focus on understanding the survival strategies adopted by these avian predators.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 09 December 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive monograph spans eight years of extensive bibliographical and field research, delving into various behavioral ecology aspects of the Palaearctic falcons. It has evolved alongside "The Lanner falcon," published in 2015 and revised in 2017, with the shared goal of providing a clear and comprehensive overview of the biology and ecology of these remarkable species. Over the past two decades, there has been a significant surge in publications on falcons, encompassing both mainstream and gray literature. This expansion has been accompanied by an increase in the involvement of academics and nature enthusiasts alike. While many previously published books focused solely on identification, they offered limited insights into the behavioral and ecological dimensions of these birds. Conversely, a wealth of fundamental data is scattered across numerous articles published in local magazines. While certain falcon species, such as kestrels, are readily observable and studied, others are more elusive and localized. To fully comprehend the survival strategies employed by this diverse group of avian predators, it is crucial to maintain a holistic perspective. This book endeavors to elucidate the various survival strategies by examining key aspects that are essential for all species within the Falco genus. The first chapter offers a foundational overview, providing information on the genus Falco, its genetics, evolution, and morphological peculiarities. Subsequent chapters delve into reproductive strategies, competition, resource exploitation, dispersal patterns, communication, and sociality. One of the primary objectives of this book is to establish an accessible yet scholarly curated reference source. By gaining a deeper understanding of the most common species, readers can gain valuable insights into the complexities of falcon behavior and ecology. This comprehensive monograph is a valuable resource for researchers, students, and enthusiasts alike, contributing to our collective knowledge and appreciation of these remarkable birds.

Weight: 349g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030605438
Edition number: 1st ed. 2020