Nest predatory behavior in the Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus): an overlooked predator in the Neotropical cities?

Bird’s nest predation can have a significant impact on the diversity and structure of bird assemblages in urban ecosystems. Our understanding of this phenomenon in Neotropical cities, however, is still limited. The Great Kiskadee ( Pitangus sulphuratus ), a common species in urban environments, is known to prey on various vertebrate species, yet there is little information on its predation of birds or their nests. Similar to other well-known nest predators in cities worldwide, the Great Kiskadee exhibits behavioral and ecological traits that suggest it may play an important role in nest predation. Nevertheless, its role in this context has yet to be explored. Through a case report of nest predation on the Purple-throated Euphonia ( Euphonia chlorotica ) in an urban setting and a review of its ecological and biological traits, this study explores the potential and possibly overlooked role of the Great Kiskadee as a significant nest predator in Neotropical cities.