Acta Zoologica Cracoviensia, 48A(1-2) 2005

Issue:

VOL 48A(1-2) 2005

Keywords:

Owls, Strigiformes, Pieniny National Park, distribution pattern

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Abundance and distribution patterns of owls in Pieniny National Park, Southern Poland

• Michał CIACH

Abstract:

Species composition, abundance and distribution of owls Strigiformes in the Pieniny National Park were studied during the years 2001-2002. The research area covered 23.25 km². Seven owl species were recorded. A total of 30-38 territories (16-17 Tawny Owl territories, six Eagle Owl territories, four Long-eared Owl territories, 2-4 Tengmalm’s Owl territories, 2-3 Ural Owl territories, three Pygmy Owl territories and one Little Owl territory) were found, giving a density of 12.9-16.3 territories per 10 km². The numbers and density of species in the Pieniny National Park differ from those of Rother mountainous regions in Poland. The density of the Tawny Owl is significantly higher than other figures given for mountainous areas. The density recorded for the Eagle Owl is the highest in Poland and one of the highest known for this species. A low density is seen for the Ural Owl, indicating a density gradient in the Carpathian Mountains. The Little Owl found here are the only ones presently known in this part of the Polish Carpathians.