RT Journal Article
T1 Jackdaws Use Lynx Scat in Nests: Implications for Iberian Lynx Genetic Monitoring
A1 Jiménez, José
A1 Finat, Rafael
A1 Fernández Tizón, Mario
A1 Hernández Hernández, Javier
A1 Martínez González, Alicia I.
A1 Virgós, Emilio
AB We present the first documented case of jackdaws (Coloeus monedula) collecting and placing Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) scat in their nests in the Montes de Toledo, Spain. This behavior may significantly compromise conservation efforts for species whose monitoring relies on non-invasive genetic sampling—such as the lynx—especially in areas with dense populations of jackdaws or other species exhibiting similar behavior, where this removal may substantially reduce sample availability. Using artificial nest boxes equipped with camera traps, we confirmed that jackdaws actively transport lynx scat to their nests. In a controlled experiment simulating a lynx latrine, all scat was removed in just over an hour. Simulations using spatial capture-recapture (SCR) models showed that this behavior can introduce bias and reduce the accuracy of population estimates based on genetic sampling, a widely used method in wildlife monitoring. These findings highlight the importance of considering interspecific interactions when designing monitoring protocols for threatened species. More broadly, this case illustrates how overlooked ecological behaviors can compromise conservation tools and underscores the need for adaptive monitoring strategies in dynamic ecosystems.
PB John Wiley & Sons
SN 2045-7758
YR 2025
FD 2025-07-24
LK https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/123596
UL https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/123596
LA eng
NO Jiménez, José, et al. «Jackdaws Use Lynx Scat in Nests: Implications for Iberian Lynx Genetic Monitoring». Ecology and Evolution, vol. 15, n.o 7, julio de 2025, p. e71859. DOI.org (Crossref), https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.71859
DS Docta Complutense
RD 26 ene 2026