Scientific publications

Studies were done (1999-2005) in a 125 km2 research area. The study area is situated on the NE shore of the Rybinsk reservoir, near the city of Cherepovets (Vologda region). During the 7 years of observations, 14 species of Falconiformes were recorded in the area, and breeding was confirmed for 12 of them. The combined mean annual abundance of breeding species was 32 pairs (27 to 37 pairs in different years) with an average population density of 29 pairs/100 km². The bulk of the population is constituted by the Black Kite (study period mean 23.7%), Hobby (21%), Black Kite (16%), Sparrowhawk (15.6%), Buzzard (11.6%) and White-tailed Sea Eagle (9.8%). The rest of the species contributed 1-10% to the total raptor population in the research area (Marsh Harrier (7.6%), Osprey (3.6%), Honey Buzzard (3.1%), Hen Harrier (2.2%)). The Kestrel (0.9%), Goshawk (0.4%) and Peregrine Falcon (0.4%) contributed less than 1% each. Occasional registrations of the Golden
Eagle and transient Rough-legged Buzzard were also reported. Data on the abundance dynamics and ecology of Falconiformes in the investigated part of the Rybinsk reservoir shore area are presented.