The colonization of sicily by the Black Kite (Milvus migrans)

Abstract

I describe the colonization of the black kites (Milvus migrans) in Sicily. The ancient ornithologists of the ninth century considered this species as occasional and rare in Sicily. The black kite has been classified as the second mosto common species observed in the Strait of Messina in spring and is also most abundant during fall migration. Habitats suitable for nesting are available along the migratory route. This species is reproducing and remaining during the winter in an approximate area of 100 kmq located in the center of Sicily. The first confirmed reproductive data was reported in 1979, later a more extensive colonization followed. Stadia tardla was recorded during vehicle censuses in 1987-92, these kites were not observed during the previous investigations (1977-80). In the central portion of the area of ​​the first ​​study, an individual was observed entering a red kite (Milvus milvus) roost during the winter of 1990-91 and a small group of four to seven black kites is regularly observed now. The last phase of the colonization process was the establishment of a summer roost on a garbage dump, which increased from an average of 6.6 to 19 non-breeding individuals in 1998-2001. The total population towards the end of August is 50-60 birds