Predation of two species of Columbidae by the burrowing owl Athene cunicularia (Strigiformes, Strigidae) in urban environment

The burrowing owl Athene cunicularia is a species known for its adaptation to urban environments, able to adjust their behaviors according to environmental conditions. This work reports the record of predation of two species of columbids by Athene cunicularia. Sixty-three burrowing owl nests were monitored in Paraná state between June 2022 and August 2023. The predated species were identified through direct observation at the time of predation and by comparing wings and feathers found in the owls’ nests with pictures of the suspected species. Both Columba livia and Zenaida auriculata were registered, counting seven records. Six occurred in different points of the study area, while one occurred in Roraima state. The predation of these birds by Athene cunicularia should not be isolated cases, as they cohabit urban areas. Our data highlights the species’ adjustment to the urban environment since the domestic pigeon is not part of its known diet and has about 124% of the owl’s body mass, reinforcing the importance of Athene cunicularia in urban environments as they control populations of harmful or even invasive species.