The post-fledging dependence period in the Lesser Kestrel Falcon naumanni

Abstract

We studied the post-fledging dependence period of individually marked lesser kestrels (Falco naumanni) in southwestern Spain. Chicks fledged at a mean age of 37 d and remained at the breeding colony, depending on their parents for food, on average 5 d more. Parents declined food provisioning to offspring during the post-fledging dependence period. We did not observe play wish objects, social play, training or learning of hunting skills among the fledglings. Family groups dissolved once the fledglings dispersed from the colony. The adults tend to remain at the breeding colony while juveniles have been observed up to 164 km NE-NW from their nasal colony before starting fall migration.