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DOI: IMPACT OF INVASIVE RACCOON DOG DEPREDATION ON DALMATIAN PELICAN BREEDING POPULATION IN BULGARIA
Yordan M. Petrov , Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, BulgariaAbstract
The Dalmatian pelican (Pelecanus crispus) is an endangered species that faces numerous threats to its breeding population. In Bulgaria, the presence of the invasive raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) has emerged as a significant concern due to its predatory behavior on pelican nests. This study aims to assess the impact of raccoon dog depredation on the Dalmatian pelican's breeding population in Bulgaria. Field surveys were conducted over multiple breeding seasons to monitor nesting sites, predator activity, and breeding success. Data analysis revealed a strong negative correlation between raccoon dog presence and pelican breeding success, with higher predation rates associated with decreased hatching and fledgling rates. The findings highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts to mitigate the impact of raccoon dogs on the vulnerable Dalmatian pelican population in Bulgaria.
Keywords
Dalmatian pelican, raccoon dog, invasive species
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