Predation and spatial distribution of the lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata: An experimental approach

Abstract

This study reports on an experiment designed to quantify potential predation by birds on the lizard Podarcis hispanica atrata in the Columbretes islands (Castellon, Spain). We used plasticine replicas to examine predation risk of replicas as a function of proximity to vegetation and to potential predators, and to investigate the seasonal variation in patterns of predation. Predation on replicas was very high and intensive within only four days, and differed between study areas and seasons. Predation was more intense when replicas were closer to nests of gulls and far from vegetation. The Yellow-legged Gull (Larus cachinnans michaellis) was identified as the major species responsible for predation on lizard replicas.