Nest Predation in the Canarian Houbara Bustard ( <i>Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventurae</i> ): An Experimental Study Using Artificial Nests

ABSTRACT Nest predation is fundamental to bird population dynamics. We used GLM analysis to investigate the microhabitat and landscape variables associated with the predation of 229 artificial nests within the range of the Canarian houbara bustard ( Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventurae ), an endangered subspecies endemic to the Canary Islands. Fifty‐seven percent of the nests were predated, with the Canarian raven ( Corvus corax canariensis ) being the predator in 22 of the 23 predation events captured by 52 camera traps; in the remaining case, the predator was a dog. After model averaging, four variables were significant. Density of ravens contributed to higher predation rates, and vegetation cover and stone cover contributed to lower predation rates, probably due to the greater difficulty of predators to locate them, as they were better camouflaged. Nests located in areas with higher road density experienced less predation, possibly because these areas hold fewer predators and prey due to vehicle traffic. The identification of the raven as the main predator, together with its population increase in the eastern Canary Islands in recent decades, highlights the need to reduce human‐derived food resources—particularly those provided by feeding stations for Egyptian vultures—which are probably contributing to its expansion within the Canarian houbara's habitat. Free‐roaming and feral dogs and cats also pose a threat to houbara nests and chicks, warranting control measures. Additionally, we recommend preserving vegetation cover and stony areas while avoiding the construction of new roads in houbara breeding habitats.