The use of solar-powered transmitting video cameras for monitoring the breeding biology of Bearded Vultures Gypaetus barbatus

Abstract

We designed a system of solar-powered video cameras that transmitted images via telemetry to a monitor. This system allowed us to study the breeding behaviour of the Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus in the Pyrenees (NE Spain). From 2000-2006, 14 nests in 8 territories were equipped with video cameras. To avoid disturbing the birds, the equipment was installed 3-8 weeks before egg-laying. The acceptance rate was 78%. No decline in productivity was observed in the nests monitored with video cameras compared to control nests. The cameras enabled us to document egg-laying, hatching asynchrony, the nestlings’ diet and the parents’ breeding behaviour from distances of 2-3 km, although some technical problems temporarily interrupted the transmission of images. Video cameras can be used successfully to study this species at nesting cliffs, and probably other cliff-nesting raptors, without causing a decrease in productivity.