Title
Microlophus Bivittatus (Lava Lizarrd). Predation.
Author(s)
Burke, R. L.; Figueras, M.; Calle, P. P.
Published
2015
Publisher
Herpetological Review
Abstract
On 13 January 2015 at 1138 h we observed an Ardea alba (Great Egret) stalk, capture, and consume an adult female Microlophus bivittatus in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador (0.90336ºS, 89.6105ºW). The setting was an urban vacant lot with scattered building material and low plants. M. bivittatus were conspicuously common in the town, and appeared to be the only available food there for A. alba; the close flight distance of A. alba in the Galápagos probably contributed to its ability to forage in a busy urban area. Ardea alba normally forage in nearshore habitats and are native to San Cristóbal (Fitter et al 2000. Wildlife of the Galápagos, Princeton University Press, Princeton, New Jersey. 254 pp.). The capture and consumption took approximately 20 seconds.

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PUB26931