A fossil vertebrate fauna accumulated by laughing owls ( Sceloglaux albifacies ) on the Gouland Downs, northwest Nelson, South Island | Notornis and Birds New Zealand

[摘要] A rich fossil fauna accumulated by laughing owls (Sceloglaux albfacies) during the Holocene, is described from GDlOl Cave, on the Gouland Downs, northwest Nelson, South Island, New Zealand. Twenty-eight species of bird, a tuatara, 3 frogs, at least 4 geckos, 1 skink, 2 bats, and 2 fish contribute to the species diversity. The fauna includes the first inland fossil record of New Zealand dotterel (Charadrius obscurus). The taphonomy of the deposit and the diet of the owl are discussed.

[学科分类] 动物科学

[关键词] fossil fauna;Gouland Downs;Laughing Owl;New Zealand;prey remains;Sceloglaux;taphonomy