Habitat selection in a changing environment: the relationship between habitat alteration and Scops Owl (Aves: Strigidae) territory occupancy

Scops Owl (Otus scops) territories in northwest Italy, particularly in the high-density Monferrato region, thrive in stable agricultural landscapes with minimal changes since the mid-1950s. The study used maximum entropy (MAXENT) models to analyze habitat occupancy across 401 territories, revealing a preference for middle-altitude areas with intermediate slopes, riparian zones, and pasture-grasslands while avoiding woodlands and Robinia pseudoacacia shrublands. Comparison of landcover data from 2009 and 1954/55 in Monferrato highlighted that stable cropland-vineyard mosaics are critical for owl occupancy. Conservation efforts should prioritize preserving riparian zones and promoting pasture-grassland-friendly agricultural practices to mitigate habitat loss, a key threat to this European concern species.

Treggiari, A. A., Gagliardone, M., Pellegrino, I., & Cucco, M. (2013). Habitat selection in a changing environment: the relationship between habitat alteration and Scops Owl (Aves: Strigidae) territory occupancy. Italian Journal of Zoology, 80(4), 574–585. https://doi.org/10.1080/11250003.2013.853843