Autumn migration of the Red-footed Falcon, Falco vespertinus, at Akrotiri Peninsula, Cyprus 2009-2019 (Aves: Falconiformes)

Cyprus is an important stopover area for the Red-footed Falcon, a raptor of global conservation concern. We surveyed the migrant population at Akrotiri Peninsula from 2009 to 2019. Birds were counted from September to November. Annual total was on average 662 birds, ranging from 106 to 1331 birds. This exceeds 1% of the European flyway population. Peak passages occurred from late September to mid-October with a median date on 6 October. The migrating population was stable over the years with no significant overall trend (p>0.05). Little is known on the source population migrating through Akrotiri Peninsula, and the relationship between the peninsula and other stopover areas in the eastern Mediterranean.

Automated summary

Cyprus serves as an important stopover area for the Red-footed Falcon, with a stable migrant population count ranging from 106 to 1331 birds annually from 2009 to 2019. The peak passage period occurs from late September to mid-October, with a median date of October 6. However, little is known about the source population migrating through Akrotiri Peninsula and its relationship with other stopover areas in the eastern Mediterranean.