Osprey, Pandion haliaetus, Depredates Common Eider, Somateria mollissima, Duckling

Authors

  • Brenda M. Blinn Atlantic Cooperative Wildlife Ecology Research Network, University of New Brunswick, P.O. Box 45111, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 6E1
  • Vicky Violette Atlantic Cooperative Wildlife Ecology Research Network, University of New Brunswick, P.O. Box 45111, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 6E1
  • Antony W. Diamond Atlantic Cooperative Wildlife Ecology Research Network, University of New Brunswick, P.O. Box 45111, Fredericton, New Brunswick E3B 6E1

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22621/cfn.v120i2.295

Keywords:

Common Eider, Somateria mollissima, Osprey, Pandion haliaetus, predation, Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick

Abstract

To our knowledge, we present the first published account of a successful attack on a Common Eider (Somateria mollissima) duckling by an Osprey. Ospreys were sighted periodically during 940 hours of Common Eider observations in June-August, 2001 on Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick. One duckling (<1 week old) was observed depredated by an Osprey. Vulnerability of ducklings to predation may promote such opportunistic behaviour. The rarity of observations of such incidents suggests depredation on ducklings by Osprey is uncommon.

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Issue

Vol. 120 No. 2 (2006)

Section

Notes

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