The effect of different nest types on the breeding success of Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) in a rural ecosystem

Published source details Charter M., Izhaki I., Bouskila A. & Leshem Y. (2007) The effect of different nest types on the breeding success of Eurasian kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) in a rural ecosystem. Journal of Raptor Research, 41, 143-149.
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This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

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	Provide artificial nesting sites for falcons Action Link

Provide artificial nesting sites for falcons

A replicated, controlled study in mixed agricultural habitats in the North District of Israel, in 1999-2006 (Charter et al. 2007), found that Eurasian kestrel Falco tinnunculus nesting in small nest boxes produced more chicks than those in large boxes (3.0 chicks/clutch for 37 in small boxes vs. 1.9 chicks/clutch for 44 clutches in large), with no differences between boxes and natural nests (2.1 chicks/clutch for 56 attempts). Large boxes had higher failure rates (48% of 44 attempts) compare to small (20% of 37) and natural nests (20% of 56 in natural nests). When only successful nests were analysed, all boxes fledged more chicks than natural nests (3.6-3.9 chicks/clutch for 52 clutches in nest boxes vs. 2.7 chicks/clutch for 44 in natural nests). Boxes were either: 50 x 75 x 50 cm with a 25 x 15 cm entrance hole and mounted 2.5-3.0 m above ground or 50 x 30 x 30 cm with a 22 x 15 cm hole and 5-6 m above ground. Sixty large and eleven small boxes were erected.