Raptors primarily use soaring-gliding flight which exploits thermals and ridge lifts over land to reduce energetic costs However during migration, these birds often have to cross water surfaces where thermal currents ...Raptors primarily use soaring-gliding flight which exploits thermals and ridge lifts over land to reduce energetic costs However during migration, these birds often have to cross water surfaces where thermal currents are weak; during these times, birds mainly use flapping （powered） flight which increases energy consumption and mortality risk. As a result, some species have evolved strategies to reduce the amount of time spent over water by taking extensive detours over land. In this paper, we con- ducted a meta-analysis of water-crossing tendencies in Afro-Palearctic migrating raptors in relation to their morphology, their flight performance, and their phylogenetic relationships. In particular, we considered the aspect ratio （calculated as the wing span squared divided by wing area）, the energetic cost of powered flight, and the maximum water crossing length regularly performed by adult birds. Our results suggest that energy consumption during powered flight predominately affects the ability of raptors to fly over water surfaces展开更多
This study assessed the nesting patterns of raptors, Gyps africanus and Haliaeetus vocifer in Lochinvar National Park. The main objective of the study was to determine whether tree species, height, girth size, and hab...This study assessed the nesting patterns of raptors, Gyps africanus and Haliaeetus vocifer in Lochinvar National Park. The main objective of the study was to determine whether tree species, height, girth size, and habitat influenced raptor’s nest placement within Lochinvar National Park. Two species were selected as indicator species for the raptors. Habitat types and tree species were identified and measurements of tree species with nests measured. It was found that the minimum height of nest placement was 10 meters above ground and Acacia woodland was found to be the most preferred habitat for nest placement. Raptors avoided human disturbance by placing their nests at least 100 meters away from human disturbance and from the National park boundary inwards or abandoning if human encroachment comes close to the nest. More research is required to assess nesting materials used, and to determine whether raptors can swap nets or return to the abandoned nests when human disturbance ceases.展开更多
Background:Power lines are amongst the main causes of mortality for birds globally.Electrocution drives the population dynamics of several threatened species of raptors,at local and global scales.Among the many soluti...Background:Power lines are amongst the main causes of mortality for birds globally.Electrocution drives the population dynamics of several threatened species of raptors,at local and global scales.Among the many solutions that have been tested to minimize this threat are supplemental perches;however,their efficiency has rarely been assessed.Methods:We designed 43 transects in 4 districts in mainland Portugal to gather data from birds perching on pylons with or without supplemental perches.From 2015 to 2018,transects were surveyed by car at least once.We analyzed the factors driving the use of these supplemental perches,and we analyzed if there were differences in the perceived risk(calculated from measurements and not from field surveys)depending on whether the perching was on pylons with or without supplemental perches.Results:We recorded 548 perches of 14 species.Weather conditions seemed to play a role in birds’choice of pylons with supplemental perches versus pylons without supplemental perches.Models also indicated a strong influence of observational conditions.The use of models showed us an important specific effect in the selection of supplemental perches where available:there are some species with a greater tendency to perch on supplemental perches,even when they use both pylons with and without supplemental perches.For most of the analyzed species and species groups,perceived risk was higher in pylons without supplemental perches compared to pylons with supplemental perches,but there were differences between species.Conclusions:Supplemental perches may be a useful and efficient tool for mitigating raptor electrocution.However,there are many influential factors affecting their success,and their effectiveness with different species groups is not homogeneous.Some studies show higher electrocution rates for certain species and devices and thus,their efficacy must be validated.We propose a two-step validation process,first in controlled conditions and then in the field.A common protocol should be established to enable comparisons between studies.展开更多
Raptors are getting more attention from researchers because of their excellent flight abilities.And the excellent wing morphing ability is critical for raptors to achieve high maneuvering flight,which can be a good bi...Raptors are getting more attention from researchers because of their excellent flight abilities.And the excellent wing morphing ability is critical for raptors to achieve high maneuvering flight,which can be a good bionic inspiration for unmanned aerial vehicles(UAV)design.However,morphing wing motions of Falco peregrinus with multi postures cannot be consulted since such a motion database was nonexistent.This study aimed to provide data reference for future research in wing morphing kinetics.We used the computed tomography(CT)approach to obtain nine critical postures of the Falco peregrinus wing skeleton,followed with motion analysis of each joint and bone.Based on the obtained motion database,a six-bar kinematic model was proposed to regenerate wing motions with a high fidelity.展开更多
Raptors can change the shape and area of their wings to an exceptional degree in a fast and efficient manner,surpassing other birds,insects,or bats.Some researchers have focused on the functional properties of muscle ...Raptors can change the shape and area of their wings to an exceptional degree in a fast and efficient manner,surpassing other birds,insects,or bats.Some researchers have focused on the functional properties of muscle skeletons,mechanics,and flapping robot design.However,the wing motion of the birds of prey has not been measured quantitatively,and synthetic bionic wings with morphing abilities similar to raptors are far from reality.Therefore,in the current study,a 3D suspension system for holding bird carcasses was designed and fabricated to fasten the wings of Falco Peregrinus with a series of morphing postures.Subsequently,the wing skeleton of the falcon was scanned during extending motions using the computed tomography(CT)approach to obtain three consecutive poses.Subsequently,the skeleton was reconstructed to identify the contribution of the forelimb bones to the extending/folding motions.Inspired by these findings,we propose a simple mechanical model with four bones to form a wing-morphing mechanism using the proposed pose optimisation method.Finally,a bionic wing mechanism was implemented to imitate the motion of the falcon wing—divided into inner and outer wings with folding and twisting motions.The results show that the proposed four-bar mechanism can track bone motion paths with high fidelity.展开更多
Following a series of surveys since 2003, a full-seasonal raptor count was undertaken at Baiwangshan, a mountain in the vicinity of Beijing, from 6 March to 22 May 2009, when 3802 individual birds of 23 species were r...Following a series of surveys since 2003, a full-seasonal raptor count was undertaken at Baiwangshan, a mountain in the vicinity of Beijing, from 6 March to 22 May 2009, when 3802 individual birds of 23 species were recorded. Four species, i.e., Oriental Honey Buzzard(Pernis ptilorhynchus), Common Buzzard(Buteo buteo), Eurasian Sparrow Hawk(Accipiter nisus) and Gray-faced Buzzard(Butastur indicus) together accounted for up 90% of the total and P. ptilorhynchus alone for 70%. Raptor passage of such magnitude and diversity at an inland site in China was unheard of up to then. As well, 113 other migrants were recorded at the site during this period, including 24 water birds, 74 passerines and 15 others(cuckoos, owls and other migrants).展开更多
Assessing individual differences and variability in animal movement patterns is essential to improve our understanding of the evolution and ontogeny of migratory strategies.In long-distance migratory species,fledged j...Assessing individual differences and variability in animal movement patterns is essential to improve our understanding of the evolution and ontogeny of migratory strategies.In long-distance migratory species,fledged juveniles often rely on an extremely restricted time span to learn the essential skills for survival and to prepare for migration,possibly the most risky phase of their lives.Collecting detailed information on the dynamics of the movements during the crucial pre-migratory phase is hence essential to understand the solutions developed by migratory species in different environmental contexts.Here,we used high-resolution GPS/GSM transmitters to collect information on the movement ecology of seven juvenile Montagu's Harriers(Circus pygargus)born in central Italy,investigating their early life stages,namely the post-fledging dependence period(PFDP)and the pre-migratory phase(PMP),until autumn migration.After fledging,individuals showed high variability(both in space and time)in home range size,daily distances covered(6.88±11.44 km/day),distance from the nest(1.45±2.8 km)and PFDP length(23.3±5.3 days).Residence time at the natal site significantly decreased,while time interval between revists in the natal area significantly increased,as the PFDP progressed.During the PMP,explored areas and distance from the nest(max value up to 320.8 km)varied among individuals,despite daily distances covered(27±40 km/day)and time allocation between traveling(60.7%)and foraging(39.3%)were similar across individuals.The PMP lasted 38±14 days.Land cover composition of foraging locations was mostly represented by agricultural lands(~78.2%),though habitat use differed among individuals.More than 76%of such locations were outside protected areas.This individual-based tracking study represents a novel approach that improves previous knowledge based on field studies on the early life stages of the Montagu's Harrier.High inter-individual variability in movement patterns,broad-range exploratory movements and foraging locations outside the protected area network make the application of standard conservation measures difficult,raising concerns about the long-term preservation of this vulnerable migratory species in Italy.展开更多
Understanding how diet influences the breeding success of Saker Falcons (Falco cherrug) is key to assessing the role of food supply in population dynamics and informing conservation strategies. Through pellet analysis...Understanding how diet influences the breeding success of Saker Falcons (Falco cherrug) is key to assessing the role of food supply in population dynamics and informing conservation strategies. Through pellet analysis, we evaluated the influence of small mammal prey—present in 95% of pellets—on the reproductive performance of the sakers. In Mongolia, three species comprised 95% of the identified small mammals: Mongolian Gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus, 39%), Brandt's Vole (Lasiopodomys brandtii, 49%) and Daurian Pika (Ochotona dauurica, 7%). We found a strong positive association between the proportion of small mammals in the diet and key breeding parameters of sakers. Clutch size, fledged brood sizes, and nest success all increased with a mammal-rich diet. Earlier laying was also linked to higher small mammal intake and was independently associated with improved breeding outcomes. These findings highlight a critical role of small mammal prey in shaping the reproductive success of sakers. Conserving and restoring grassland habitats that support abundant prey populations is essential for sustaining saker populations and achieving long-term conservation goals.展开更多
尽管第14代酷睿处理器曾存在不稳定的问题,但由于英特尔后续推出了用于补救的BIOS,且把处理器质保时间延长至5年,并大幅降价,令产品性价比爆棚,就像酷睿i7-14700KF。这款处理器采用经过更新的Raptor Lake S Refresh架构,相对第13代酷睿i...尽管第14代酷睿处理器曾存在不稳定的问题,但由于英特尔后续推出了用于补救的BIOS,且把处理器质保时间延长至5年,并大幅降价,令产品性价比爆棚,就像酷睿i7-14700KF。这款处理器采用经过更新的Raptor Lake S Refresh架构,相对第13代酷睿i7的8P+8E配置,它采用8P+12E的配置,多了4颗能效核核心。展开更多
文摘Raptors primarily use soaring-gliding flight which exploits thermals and ridge lifts over land to reduce energetic costs However during migration, these birds often have to cross water surfaces where thermal currents are weak; during these times, birds mainly use flapping （powered） flight which increases energy consumption and mortality risk. As a result, some species have evolved strategies to reduce the amount of time spent over water by taking extensive detours over land. In this paper, we con- ducted a meta-analysis of water-crossing tendencies in Afro-Palearctic migrating raptors in relation to their morphology, their flight performance, and their phylogenetic relationships. In particular, we considered the aspect ratio （calculated as the wing span squared divided by wing area）, the energetic cost of powered flight, and the maximum water crossing length regularly performed by adult birds. Our results suggest that energy consumption during powered flight predominately affects the ability of raptors to fly over water surfaces
文摘This study assessed the nesting patterns of raptors, Gyps africanus and Haliaeetus vocifer in Lochinvar National Park. The main objective of the study was to determine whether tree species, height, girth size, and habitat influenced raptor’s nest placement within Lochinvar National Park. Two species were selected as indicator species for the raptors. Habitat types and tree species were identified and measurements of tree species with nests measured. It was found that the minimum height of nest placement was 10 meters above ground and Acacia woodland was found to be the most preferred habitat for nest placement. Raptors avoided human disturbance by placing their nests at least 100 meters away from human disturbance and from the National park boundary inwards or abandoning if human encroachment comes close to the nest. More research is required to assess nesting materials used, and to determine whether raptors can swap nets or return to the abandoned nests when human disturbance ceases.
基金the LIFE+Nature project“Conservation of the Spanish Imperial Eagle(Aquila adalberti)in Portugal”-LIFE13 NAT/PT/001300,supported 75%by the Life Programme-European Commission。
文摘Background:Power lines are amongst the main causes of mortality for birds globally.Electrocution drives the population dynamics of several threatened species of raptors,at local and global scales.Among the many solutions that have been tested to minimize this threat are supplemental perches;however,their efficiency has rarely been assessed.Methods:We designed 43 transects in 4 districts in mainland Portugal to gather data from birds perching on pylons with or without supplemental perches.From 2015 to 2018,transects were surveyed by car at least once.We analyzed the factors driving the use of these supplemental perches,and we analyzed if there were differences in the perceived risk(calculated from measurements and not from field surveys)depending on whether the perching was on pylons with or without supplemental perches.Results:We recorded 548 perches of 14 species.Weather conditions seemed to play a role in birds’choice of pylons with supplemental perches versus pylons without supplemental perches.Models also indicated a strong influence of observational conditions.The use of models showed us an important specific effect in the selection of supplemental perches where available:there are some species with a greater tendency to perch on supplemental perches,even when they use both pylons with and without supplemental perches.For most of the analyzed species and species groups,perceived risk was higher in pylons without supplemental perches compared to pylons with supplemental perches,but there were differences between species.Conclusions:Supplemental perches may be a useful and efficient tool for mitigating raptor electrocution.However,there are many influential factors affecting their success,and their effectiveness with different species groups is not homogeneous.Some studies show higher electrocution rates for certain species and devices and thus,their efficacy must be validated.We propose a two-step validation process,first in controlled conditions and then in the field.A common protocol should be established to enable comparisons between studies.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.52175279,52075489,and 51705459)the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province,China(Grant Nos.LY20E050022 and LGG20E050017)。
文摘Raptors are getting more attention from researchers because of their excellent flight abilities.And the excellent wing morphing ability is critical for raptors to achieve high maneuvering flight,which can be a good bionic inspiration for unmanned aerial vehicles(UAV)design.However,morphing wing motions of Falco peregrinus with multi postures cannot be consulted since such a motion database was nonexistent.This study aimed to provide data reference for future research in wing morphing kinetics.We used the computed tomography(CT)approach to obtain nine critical postures of the Falco peregrinus wing skeleton,followed with motion analysis of each joint and bone.Based on the obtained motion database,a six-bar kinematic model was proposed to regenerate wing motions with a high fidelity.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(52175279,51705459)Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(LY20E050022).
文摘Raptors can change the shape and area of their wings to an exceptional degree in a fast and efficient manner,surpassing other birds,insects,or bats.Some researchers have focused on the functional properties of muscle skeletons,mechanics,and flapping robot design.However,the wing motion of the birds of prey has not been measured quantitatively,and synthetic bionic wings with morphing abilities similar to raptors are far from reality.Therefore,in the current study,a 3D suspension system for holding bird carcasses was designed and fabricated to fasten the wings of Falco Peregrinus with a series of morphing postures.Subsequently,the wing skeleton of the falcon was scanned during extending motions using the computed tomography(CT)approach to obtain three consecutive poses.Subsequently,the skeleton was reconstructed to identify the contribution of the forelimb bones to the extending/folding motions.Inspired by these findings,we propose a simple mechanical model with four bones to form a wing-morphing mechanism using the proposed pose optimisation method.Finally,a bionic wing mechanism was implemented to imitate the motion of the falcon wing—divided into inner and outer wings with folding and twisting motions.The results show that the proposed four-bar mechanism can track bone motion paths with high fidelity.
文摘Following a series of surveys since 2003, a full-seasonal raptor count was undertaken at Baiwangshan, a mountain in the vicinity of Beijing, from 6 March to 22 May 2009, when 3802 individual birds of 23 species were recorded. Four species, i.e., Oriental Honey Buzzard(Pernis ptilorhynchus), Common Buzzard(Buteo buteo), Eurasian Sparrow Hawk(Accipiter nisus) and Gray-faced Buzzard(Butastur indicus) together accounted for up 90% of the total and P. ptilorhynchus alone for 70%. Raptor passage of such magnitude and diversity at an inland site in China was unheard of up to then. As well, 113 other migrants were recorded at the site during this period, including 24 water birds, 74 passerines and 15 others(cuckoos, owls and other migrants).
文摘Assessing individual differences and variability in animal movement patterns is essential to improve our understanding of the evolution and ontogeny of migratory strategies.In long-distance migratory species,fledged juveniles often rely on an extremely restricted time span to learn the essential skills for survival and to prepare for migration,possibly the most risky phase of their lives.Collecting detailed information on the dynamics of the movements during the crucial pre-migratory phase is hence essential to understand the solutions developed by migratory species in different environmental contexts.Here,we used high-resolution GPS/GSM transmitters to collect information on the movement ecology of seven juvenile Montagu's Harriers(Circus pygargus)born in central Italy,investigating their early life stages,namely the post-fledging dependence period(PFDP)and the pre-migratory phase(PMP),until autumn migration.After fledging,individuals showed high variability(both in space and time)in home range size,daily distances covered(6.88±11.44 km/day),distance from the nest(1.45±2.8 km)and PFDP length(23.3±5.3 days).Residence time at the natal site significantly decreased,while time interval between revists in the natal area significantly increased,as the PFDP progressed.During the PMP,explored areas and distance from the nest(max value up to 320.8 km)varied among individuals,despite daily distances covered(27±40 km/day)and time allocation between traveling(60.7%)and foraging(39.3%)were similar across individuals.The PMP lasted 38±14 days.Land cover composition of foraging locations was mostly represented by agricultural lands(~78.2%),though habitat use differed among individuals.More than 76%of such locations were outside protected areas.This individual-based tracking study represents a novel approach that improves previous knowledge based on field studies on the early life stages of the Montagu's Harrier.High inter-individual variability in movement patterns,broad-range exploratory movements and foraging locations outside the protected area network make the application of standard conservation measures difficult,raising concerns about the long-term preservation of this vulnerable migratory species in Italy.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32125005, 32361133559)the Institute of Zoology,Chinese Academy of Sciences (2023IOZ0104)+2 种基金the Third Xinjiang Scientific Expedition Program (Grant No. 2022xjkk0800)the CAS-TWAS President’s Fellowship programme (BB)The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) funded the project under a MOU with Mongolia’s Ministry of Environment and Green Development (MEGD)
文摘Understanding how diet influences the breeding success of Saker Falcons (Falco cherrug) is key to assessing the role of food supply in population dynamics and informing conservation strategies. Through pellet analysis, we evaluated the influence of small mammal prey—present in 95% of pellets—on the reproductive performance of the sakers. In Mongolia, three species comprised 95% of the identified small mammals: Mongolian Gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus, 39%), Brandt's Vole (Lasiopodomys brandtii, 49%) and Daurian Pika (Ochotona dauurica, 7%). We found a strong positive association between the proportion of small mammals in the diet and key breeding parameters of sakers. Clutch size, fledged brood sizes, and nest success all increased with a mammal-rich diet. Earlier laying was also linked to higher small mammal intake and was independently associated with improved breeding outcomes. These findings highlight a critical role of small mammal prey in shaping the reproductive success of sakers. Conserving and restoring grassland habitats that support abundant prey populations is essential for sustaining saker populations and achieving long-term conservation goals.
文摘尽管第14代酷睿处理器曾存在不稳定的问题,但由于英特尔后续推出了用于补救的BIOS,且把处理器质保时间延长至5年,并大幅降价,令产品性价比爆棚,就像酷睿i7-14700KF。这款处理器采用经过更新的Raptor Lake S Refresh架构,相对第13代酷睿i7的8P+8E配置,它采用8P+12E的配置,多了4颗能效核核心。
