Feeding site selection by Wigeon Anas penelope in relation to water

Abstract

The feeding sites of European Wigeon Anas penelope are always close to water. Initial studies suggest that this is primarily an anti‐predator behaviour rather than a requirement for drinking and bathing. Vigilance and flock‐size measurements at varying distances from water support this hypothesis. However, birds will feed away from water if grass biomass is greater further away. The end of the shooting season also causes birds to feed further away from water.