The common kestrel Falco tinnunculus is attracted to the scent of voles

Abstract

Although the study of the role of olfaction in avian foraging is providing exciting results, whether olfaction is involved in the detection of prey by raptors is still understudied. Here, we present the results of a study aimed to assess whether the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is attracted to the scent of the cues that common voles (Microtus arvalis) use to mark their territory. In an experimental study in captivity we released kestrels in an aviary containing two trays, one tray containing vole scent and one unscented tray. Results show that kestrels are attracted to the vole chemical cues as a greater number of kestrels paid the first visit to the vole-scented tray. Furthermore, the kestrels visited significantly more often the vole scented tray than the control tray. Therefore, our results show that common kestrels are able to use chemical cues emitted by their prey for foraging.