HABITAT SELECTION BY THE LITTLE BUSTARD TETRAX-TETRAX IN CULTIVATED AREAS OF CENTRAL SPAIN

Habitat selection of the little bustard Tetrax tetrax during the breeding season was analysed in four cultivated areas of central Spain. Little bustards preferred long-fallow land legume crops and fallow land. Cereal crops, ploughed land and shrubland were avoided. One of the most important habitat requirements was vegetation whose average height does not exceed 20 cm. The species shows some tolerance to the proximity of buildings, villages and roads. Conservation implications are discussed.