Seasonal variations in numbers and levels of activity in a communal roost of Choughs Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax in central Spain
BLANCO G., FARGALLO J. A. and CUEVAS J.A.Abstract:
This paper presents an analysis of number and activity rates throughout year in a large communal roost of Choughs Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax in Centrai Spain. Number of Choughs attending the roost vari ed along the year, the greatest gatherings occurring during the winter. In the breeding season the roost is occupied mostly by non-breeding Choughs staying a short time in pre-roosting activities. Communal roosting in the area is interpreted as a behaviour related with socially organised foraging. After comparing variations among roosting numbers, activity patterns and duration of the roosting activities in the different periods of the year, we suggest that communal roosting may serve to facilitate mating.