Predation of free-ranging Common Poorwills in Saskatchewan.

• Main Authors: Kalcounis-Rüppell, Matina C., NC DOCKS at The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
• Language: English
• Published: 1995
• Subjects: Stump; Circus cyaneus
• Online Access: http://libres.uncg.edu/ir/uncg/f/M_Kalcounis-Ruppell_Predation_1995.pdf

Although losses of Common Poorwill (Phalaenoptilus nuttallii) nests to predators are common, little is known about predation on adults. Remains of three adults, radio-tagged in Cypress Hills Provincial Park, Saskatchewan, were found. The transmitter of a female was found woven into the base of a Northern Harrier's (Circus cyaneus) nest. Telemetry records show that the bird was killed in the daytime, consistent with harrier predation. The wing and transmitter of the female's mate were found on a stump surrounded by a marsh, suggesting avian predation. This male was also killed in the daytime, implicating harrier predation. The decapitated body of a second male was found buried next to a stump. It is speculated that this bird was taken by a coyote (Canis latrans) or badger (Taxidea taxus) because both are known to bury prey and were often observed in the study area.