Description
The basic biology of owls is poorly understood compared to that of other bird species. The Little Owl, Athene noctua, is one of the best models for biological and conservation research. Though widespread across Europe, Asia and North Africa, populations of the Little Owl are now in decline, making studies of its behavior and ecology all the more important. This extensively revised and updated second edition features substantial new long-term data on population dynamics, behavioral observations and breeding biology of the Little Owl. The authors discuss its wide-ranging ecology, genetics, subspecies, and population status by country. In addition, they outline a research strategy and monitoring program. Exceptional illustrations of all fourteen subspecies cover embryonic and chick development, feather growth and moult, including high-quality drawings presenting concrete management suggestions. Whilst being an invaluable resource for academic researchers, its accessible and straightforward style will also appeal to amateur ornithologists and enthusiasts.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction – Framework; 2. History and traditions; 3. Fossil evidence, taxonomy and genetics; 4. Morphology and body characteristics; 5. Distribution, population estimates and trends; 6. Habitat; 7. Diet; 8. Breeding season; 9. Behavior; 10. Population regulation; 11. Management and conservation; 12. Research priorities; Appendix A – List of prey; Glossary; References; Index.
