Lesser Spotted Eagle Clanga pomarina Brehm, 1831 (Aves: Accipitridae) in Russia: Recent Data on Numbers and Distribution

摘要

New data on the numbers and distribution of the Lesser Spotted Eagle were obtained as a result of the authors' studies in Moscow, Novgorod and Ivanovo Regions. Based on a detailed analysis of published materials combined with own data, serious corrections of the breeding range in Russia were made. The results of the studies implemented in the western districts of Moscow Region and in Novgorod Region identified differences in numbers and spatial distribution determined by peculiarities of farmland use. We found out that relatively large areas of hay meadows, grasslands and forage crops cultivated and mown without application of pesticides and intensive technologies in the mosaic including woods, were optimal habitats for the Lesser Spotted Eagle in the forest zone of Russia. Very low numbers or absence of this bird were recorded during our surveys of the areas harbouring abandoned farmlands overgrown with bush and tall weeds. Possible underestimation of the total population numbers and probable reasons for wide dispersion of subadult birds are discussed below.