Breeding Biology of Squacco Herons ( Ardeola ralloides ) in Northern Tunisia

Squacco Herons (Ardeola ralloides) in Ichkeul National Park and Lebna Dam, Tunisia, exhibit high reproductive success but face variability between years. The study found mean clutch sizes of 4.51 eggs per nest, with hatching success at 3.67 and fledging success at 3.06 young per nest. Notably, later-hatched chicks (rank four) showed lower body condition indices (BCI) and growth rates compared to earlier ones, highlighting potential challenges for survival. Nest characteristics like height and diameter did not influence reproductive parameters. The research underscores the need for stricter protection measures at Lebna Dam due to its accessibility risks, emphasizing the importance of controlled site management in Tunisian wetlands.

Nefla, A., Tlili, W., Ouni, R., & Nouira, S. (2014). Breeding Biology of Squacco Herons ( Ardeola ralloides ) in Northern Tunisia. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 126(2), 393–401. https://doi.org/10.1676/13-130.1