What types of terrain in Mallorca are most favorable for the stone-curlew’s ground nesting?

The stone-curlew, a nocturnal bird known for its large yellow eyes and distinctive call, favors certain types of terrain for ground nesting in Mallorca. This species typically chooses open, dry environments with sparse vegetation where the ground surface is exposed, allowing it to remain well camouflaged. The island’s flat or gently rolling agricultural landscapes, including fallow fields, dry pastures, and lightly grazed meadows, provide ideal nesting conditions. These areas offer the stone-curlew a combination of loose soil and scattered stones or pebbles that help conceal their eggs from predators.

In addition to agricultural zones, the bird is often found nesting in semi-natural habitats such as scrublands and open coastal plains. The minimal shrub cover in these locations prevents obstruction of sightlines, enabling the stone-curlew to detect approaching threats early. Furthermore, these terrains tend to be relatively undisturbed by intensive human activities, which is crucial since the stone-curlew is sensitive to disruption during its breeding season. Rocky outcrops or sandy patches interspersed with tufts of grass are especially suitable, as they offer nesting sites that balance concealment with accessibility.

Mallorca’s Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters, also influences the stone-curlew’s habitat preferences. The birds avoid heavily forested or densely vegetated areas where ground nesting would be less viable due to moisture or lack of visibility. Instead, the island’s dry lowlands and open areas with scattered low bushes foster the safe and successful rearing of chicks. Overall, the stone-curlew’s nesting success in Mallorca is closely tied to these open, semi-arid terrains that afford both protection and strategic advantage in avoiding predators.