
handle: 11250/3148368
Lateralization, the specialization of certain functions in the hemispheres of the brain, is a well-documented phenomenon across various vertebrate species. It can be determined by for example measuring preferential use of limbs. There is limited research on lateralization in raptors. This study investigates footedness in raptors, focusing on their behaviour during prey grasping and delivery to evaluate potential lateralization. Footage from previous studies, of both captive and wild birds, was analysed. examined the foot preference during initial prey approach in a rehabilitation centre and during prey delivery in nesting boxes. The study included multiple species of raptors in different contexts: birds in temporary captivity for direct observation of prey grasping and natural nesting environments of common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) for observations of prey delivery. Our findings reveal varied patterns of foot preference across species and individual birds, with some showing clear footedness and others demonstrating ambilateral tendencies. There was also a difference in the use of one and both feet between the raptors. We found a clear existence of individual lateralization during prey grasping. Notably, no lateralization was observed in common kestrels during prey delivery, suggesting species- and task specific differences in lateralization. These results highlight the complexity of motor lateralization in raptors and suggest that environmental and contextual factors may influence the expression of lateralization. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of behavioural asymmetry in raptors, with implications for ecological studies of predator-prey interactions.
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