Encouraging native predators of invasive yellow-legged hornets: breeding habitat preferences of European honey buzzards in exotic Eucalyptus plantations

Abstract

While natural forests have decreased globally, forest plantations have expanded highlighting the need for studies on plantations’ capacity to sustain biodiversity and provide ecosystem services within agroforestry mosaics. This study examined the breeding habitat preferences of European honey buzzards Pernis apivorus (a native predator of the invasive yellow-legged hornet) and their relationship with reproductive performance in exotic Eucalyptus plantations in southwestern Europe. We expected better reproductive performance in preferred habitats.