Feeding ecology of Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana (Bertoni & Bertoni, 1901) in an area under human influence in Ubatuba-SP. Preliminary observations. Lucas S. S. Ramiro, Judith Font Batalla

Abstract

The present work aims to study the ecological relationship of individuals of Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana (STRIGIFORMES) in a secondary forest environment, based on their diet. To develop the project, one-hour walks were carried out, according to climate variation, in a grid of approximately 15x20 meters, where there are perches of yellow-bellied murucututu (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana), which are used for resting. owl daytime. These sites were visited periodically in order to find egagropylae, feathers and other undigested structures under the perches and to obtain information on prey species and other possible behaviors of this species. So far, only 7 egagropylae and 2 “feather balls” have been found. Preliminary analyzes of the content of egagropylae indicate an ornithophagous predilection (Picidae and Ardeidae), followed by coleoptera (Tenebrionidae and Scarabaeidae). The balls of feathers appear to belong to Surucuá (Trogon sp.) and Pariri (Geotrygon montana). Recurrent habitat use and an individual preying on a Japu, Psarocolius decumanus, were observed. Some bird species have been recorded mobbing against owls. The relationship between environment, predator and prey is evident up to the current stage of development of the work. Owl habitat use may be closely related to food availability and plant structure.