비침습적 방법을 이용한 쇠부엉이의 식이 습성에 관한 연구

Abstract

DNA of prey present in owl pellets may provide a valuable source of information for dietary studies. This study intended to identify prey species of short-eared owl (Asio flammeus) designated as natural monument No. 324 in Korea, using molecular genetic methods. First, a partial mitochondrial cytochrome b gene was amplified and sequenced from 170 bone samples of 18 pellets to identify species. Second, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) which is a reliable and efficient method to classify species was used. Total nine species were identified as short-eared owls’ prey. Small mammals among the prey examined constitute the highest percentage (89.9%). However it was possible to identify not only small mammals but birds (japanese quail, vinous-throated parrotbill and eastern turtle dove) and amphibia (kori-salamander). Three restriction enzymes were chosen to discriminate nine prey species; Alu I, Ssp I and Stu I. In addition the percentage of prey species was calculated with short-eared owl pellet. This study will greatly enhance an ability of identification and conservation management of short-eared owls in the future.