Temporal and spatial variations in darkling beetle predation by kestrels and other raptors in a Mediterranean urban area

The aim of this research is to analyze raptor predation on darkling beetles in the Mediterranean urban area of Rome. Urban Rome harbors a number of darkling beetle species, many of which are successful city-colonizing species. Both the kestrel and little owl prey on many soil dwelling darkling beetle species, especially in ruderal and built-up areas. In contrast, the tawny owl spends a great deal of time in wooded areas, preying on arboreal species. Kestrel predation on darkling beetles in a city-center ruderal site showed a decreasing diversity from summer to winter, in accordance to the termophilic preferences of such insects. In general, darkling beetles may represent a significant food source for urban kestrels in Mediterranean areas.