Spatial ecology of the Red Kite (Milvus milvus) during the breeding period in Spain

Studies focusing on the spatial ecology of Red Kite (Milvus milvus) during breeding season are scarce, despite this having major importance in its conservation. Spain has one largest populations species, but it is very threatened country. Here, 28 Kites were tagged with GPS satellite transmitters to study movements adults (March-June), evaluating differences according sex, and investigating habitat selection. The area used by females was smaller than males (95% KDE = 4.48 vs. 3.30 km2). Females also traveled less distance per hour remained closer nest. Thus, had a higher frequency locations at distances <250 m from nest, while >1 km. Distances recorded >5 km scarce for both sexes, maximum reached usually (61% seasons) 15 Both sexes increased between 1–3 central hours day. mainly areas occupied non-irrigated arable land, forests, scrubs, herbaceous vegetation. selection certain types crops highlights agroforestry landscape conservation species. On other hand, we documented first time how part Spanish population short-distance migrant within Iberian Peninsula makes post-breeding summer.