PAJA Predation Events

Since I discussed a little bit about a possible third pair and the artificial nest project, I figured I would share a few pictures the Reconyx cameras capture of the predation events.

Again, one of the projects I am working on involves setting out 60 artificial nests on a road transect that goes away from a "hub" of infrastructure. It is testing whether or not those predators considered to be subsidized by humans (Red Foxes, Glaucous Gulls, Common Ravens) are preying on nests closer to the infrastructure. The artificial nests are made with quail eggs for shorebird nests, and Mallard eggs for duck nests. We have seven Reconyx cameras that we set on artificial shorebird nests that are chosen randomly. Parasitic Jaegers are not considered to be subsidized predators, yet, it is possible that this pair has learned that the cameras provide an easy meal, and have since depredated all of our nests. Well, at least we know of three that they were caught on camera.

PAJA has spotted nest and comes in for landing.

I really like the above shot, mostly because it shows how agile and acrobatic these birds are. 

Mate comes in to investigate. Other has quail egg in bill.

Light morph takes a quail egg.

Just another nice flight/landing shot.

Two hours later, pair goes to other artificial nest. 

In this picture you can see that it has already swallowed one or more eggs, stored in the crop, and is taking another. 

I find these interesting, mostly because I have not seen that much feeding behavior in the pairs that I have been observing. It seems like they may actually forage together, or maybe in the case of one of our nests, it was near enough to their nest that they both flew over. I have read in the Birds of North America species account for PAJA, that pairs often hunt together, except when incubating. Also, when they are feeding chicks, they will often leave it unguarded to hunt together. I think it will be interesting to see if they behave this way if and when their eggs hatch.  

I have a couple of observations of both pairs that I have to post and will also write out some of my questions in the next couple of days, so stay tuned!