bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The status of Gurney's Pitta Pitta gumeyi, 1987–1989
Authors: Gretton Adam , Kohler Marcus , Lansdown Richard V. , Pankhurst Tim J. , Parr John , Robson Craig
Published: May 2010

Fieldwork aimed at censusing Gumey's Pitta Pitta gumeyi in Peninsular Thailand was carried out over three field seasons. Fourteen sites were surveyed, at four of which the species was found. The main site (where it had been rediscovered in 1986) held 24–34 pairs, 12–18 of which were in the 500 ha study area. A second site held 3-6 pairs (but it is thought unlikely that this population still exists today), whilst the other two sites held only two pairs each and were thought to have negligible chances of survival. All territories were in semi-evergreen rainforest, below 150 m altitude. The current population i s probably some 20–30 pairs, with territories still being lost annually to deforestation. This is currently the total known world population; it is possible that the species may survive in southern Burma, but no recent surveys have been undertaken there. Furthermore, massive deforestation caused by Thai timber companies has been reported from Burma during 1988–1993. The interpretation of census results are discussed, particularly with reference to social organization and calling seasonality. The determined protection of the one remaining site supporting a viable population will be essential if the species is to survive into the next century.
Migration in South America: an overview of the austral system
Authors: Chesser R. Terry
Published: May 2010

Austral migrants are species that breed in temperate areas of South America and migrate north, towards or into Amazonia, for the southern winter. Migrations among these species are the most extensive of Southern Hemisphere migrations, and the austral system represents a third major migration system, in the sense that the term has been applied to Northern Hemisphere temperate-tropical migration. The geography of South America greatly influences the austral system. Lack of east-west geographical barriers and the shape of the continent promote a pattern of partially overlapping breeding and wintering ranges. The suboscine family Tyrannidae, the tyrant-flycatchers, is the largest group of austral migrants, with other major families including Emberizidae, Anatidae, Furnariidae, Accipitridae and Hirundinidae. Tyrant-flycatchers constitute more than one-half of the passerine austral migrants and roughly one-third of total austral migrants, a taxonomic domination seen in no other global migration system. Parallels exist, however, between austral migration and the Nearctic and Palearctic systems. Many of the same families, including Hirundinidae, Anatidae and Charadriidae, exhibit similarly high degrees of migratory behavi-our in each system. Passerine migration in the austral system is similar in numbers to that of the Nearctic-Neotropical system, but species migrate shorter distances and breed in more open and scrubby habitats. Possible differences in year-round resource availability between South American and North American temperate forests, in addition to differing availability of these habitats, may contribute to the low numbers of forest-dwelling austral migrants.
Local migrations of insectivorous birds in western Mexico: implications for the protection and conservation of their habitats
Authors: Nocedal Jorge
Published: May 2010

In this study I present data suggesting altitudinal movements of some species of foliage-gleaning insectivorous birds and related species of an oak-pine woodland of western Mexico. These movements can be regarded as short-distance or local migrations because the species involved breed in the woodlands and forests of the Sierra Madre Occidental highlands and winter in the tropical forests of the Pacific lowlands. Nine species of insectivorous birds out of 17 breed at the study site in the mountains of southern Durango and move to the lowlands in the winter; these can be regarded as short-distance or local migrants. In Mexico tropical deciduous and semi-deciduous forests are distributed mostly in the Pacific lowlands in the states of Sinaloa, Durango, Nayarit and Jalisco. Tropical forests of the Pacific lowlands are very important as wintering grounds for both North American and local west-Mexican migrants; however, there is only one protected area in western Mexico which to some degree includes these two types of tropical forests, and it is not located in the Sierra Madre Occidental, the most important mountain range in Mexico in terms of length and area covered. In addition, these tropical forests are the northern limit of the range for many tropical species. At present, these habitats are not threatened seriously by human activities (mainly forestry and cattle-raising) but this might change at any moment. At the study site the temperate highlands of southern Durango are already under the protection of “La Michilía” Biosphere Reserve, but a proposal to enlarge the area of the reserve to include the valley of the Río Mezquital and the western slope of the valley will increase the diversity of habitats, both temperate and tropical. As a consequence more bird species, as well as other taxa, will be protected in their natural environments. Such a proposal must be supported by field evidence on actual habitat use both during the breeding and wintering season, by local and long-distance migrants, in order to assess accurately the importance of this area as a representative place of western Mexico.
The annual cycle of the White-ruffed ManakinCorapipo leucorrhoa, a tropical frugivorous altitudinal migrant, and its food plants
Authors: Rosselli Loreta
Published: May 2010

Frugivorous White-ruffed ManakinsCorapipo leucorrhoa(Pipridae) showed pro nounced seasonal emigration from a pre-montane wet forest site (550 m) on the Atlantic slope of Costa Rica. “Resident” breeders left the area between August and October, and returned between February and April, at the onset of the breeding season. Female patterns differed from those of males primarily in later departure (October) and later return (April). I documented 57 fruit species in the diet at this locality and monitored phenology for 43 of those species, many of which were understorey members of the Melastomataceae. The emigration did not coincide with a period of local fruit shortage (relative to abundance at the same locality in other months), but the relative abundance and species composition of fruit resources in the areas to which the manakins migrated remains unknown. However, peak resources did coincide with the period in which recent fledglings would be commonest and the period during which most individuals were moulting prior ot emigration. Resources were lowest from November, when residents were absent, untilJune, well into the breeding season. Tentative evidence suggests considerable annual variation, possibly owing to differences in the timing of the rainy season. Individuals captured during the period when almost all “resident” breeders were absent (November) appeared to be transients, and were rarely recaptured. Weights differed between sexes, with females (χ = 12.5 ± 1.0) significantly heavier than males (χ = 11.1 ± 0.8). Males were lightest during the breeding season, intermediate in weight during the moulting period, and both sexes were heaviest during the migration period, when they accumulated subcutaneous fat. Females were lightest during the moult period, at which time many may also have dependent fledglings. Many other frugivores and nectarivores may engage in similar altitudinal migrations. Even where altitudinal migration is not possible, birds might migrate to other habitats with different fruit resources or phenologies. The design of nature reserves should accommodate the possibility of significant altitudinal (or cross-habitat) migration for many species of frugivores and nectarivores.
Nearctic avian migrants in coffee plantations and forest fragments of south-western Guatemala
Authors: Vannini Jay P.
Published: May 2010

Habitats at intermediate and upper elevations of the volcanic Cordillera of southwestern Guatemala harbour a diverse terrestrial vertebrate fauna that includes at least 423 avian species, 108 of which are known to be Nearctic migrants, and 43 of which are known or suspected to have both resident and long-distance migrant populations. During the course of floral and faunal inventories in a proposed Multiple Use Area in this region from 1987 through 1991, FIIT researchers collected or observed 254 avian species, of which 44 are regarded as Nearctic migrants and 26 are known or suspected to have both resident and long-distance migrant populations. Study sites included climax and selectively logged lower montane forest fragments, as well as subtropical agroecosystems. Data are presented to support the conclusion that a significantly higher percentage of resident avian species reported from this region in the literature continue to occupy these habitats than do species known to undertake cyclical longdistance migrations. Non-quantitative, historical reports of relative abundance of all Nearctic avian migrants in the region during the early and mid-twentieth century are compared with current status of these species. Threats to Nearctic avian migrants in the western Guatemalan highlands are discussed, and areas of future research for ornithologists working with this community in the region are proposed. Recommendations are made to preserve or improve habitats on wintering grounds and along migration routes considered to be of critical importance for the long-term survival of a number of threatened and vulnerable Nearctic avian migrants in Guatemala.
Factors affecting migratory bird routes over the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Rappole John H. , Ramos Mario A.
Published: May 2010

Over half of the 332 migratory bird species that breed in North America and winter in the tropics are affected by the obstacle to migratory flight presented by the Gulf of Mexico. Landbird migration in the vicinity of the Gulf is considered from an historical perspective, and in light of netting and observational data from the western Gulf coast. A trans-Gulf crossing from the northern Gulf coast to, or over, Yucatan is the most commonly followed fall route for eastern Nearctic migrants that winter in Central America. The spring route for these species is different, involving a more westerly trans–Gulf course for some individuals, and a circum–Gulf route for others. Prevailing wind direction and the probability of meeting turbulence over the Gulf are suggested as the main selective factors affecting route form for Gulf–area migrants.
Conservation status and regional population estimates of the White-breasted MesiteMesitornis variegata, a rare Malagasy endemic
Authors: Hawkins A. F. A.
Published: May 2010

Three different methods (visual detection on transects, call-playback and territory mapping) were used to estimate the densities of the White-breasted MesiteMesitornis variegatain western Malagasy deciduous forest. The species is threatened and belongs o t an endemic family of uncertain affinities. The population in the Menabe region, central-west Madagascar, surveyed using call-playback (the most efficient survey method), is estimated at 3,000-19,000 individuals; that of Ankarafantsika, north-west Madagascar, 6,000-26,000 individuals. Other western populations may be relicts. The White-breasted Mesite occurs at highest densities and with highest productivity in logged forest near rivers in the south of its range and in undisturbed sand-forest in the north, and is present at low density or absent from some areas of apparently suitable habitat, as well as forest that is secondary or has been severely damaged by burning. It is probably not immediately at risk from rats, dogs or selective exploitation, but hunting and forest burning through accidental bushfires or clearance for agriculture are locally important threats.

Trois méthodes différentes (détection visuelle sur transect, réémission de chant, et délimitation du territoire) ont été utilisées pour faire des estimations de la densité de la Mésite VariéeMesitornis variegatadans la forêt sèche de l'ouest de Madagascar. L'espèce est considérée comme menacée et appartient à une famille endémique de relations obscures. La population dans la region du Menabe, centre-ouest Madagascar, estime avec la réémission de chant (la méthode la plus efficace) est entre 3,000-19,000; celle de l'Ankarafantsika, nord-ouest Madagascar, est entre 6,000-26,000. Les autres populations occidentales sont probablement des vestiges. L'habitat ou l'espece se trouve le plus commune est à côté des rivières dans la foret exploitée, dans la partie méridionale de son aire de distribution, et dans forêt intacte sur sable dans le partie septentrionale. L'espece parait etre absente dans d'autres régions, meme où l'habitat est similaire. Elle existe rarement ou pas du tout dans les forêts sécondaires ou brulees. Les rongeurs introduits et Sexploitation forestiere selective ne posent pas probablement un grand problème pour l'espece, mais la chasse et le defrîchement pour l'agriculture sont localement importante.
Conservation problems and research needs for Bristle-thighed Curlews Numenius tahitiensis on their wintering grounds
Authors: Marks Jeffrey S. , Redmond Roland L.
Published: May 2010

The Bristle-thighed Curlew Numenius tahitiensis is a rare shorebird that breeds in western Alaska and winters on oceanic islands in the tropical and subtropical Pacific Ocean. Before human colonization, the islands on which curlews winter were devoid of terrestrial predators, allowing curlews to evolve a rapid moult during which about 50% of adults become flightless. Especially when flightless, these birds are vulnerable to harvest by humans and to predation by introduced mammals such as dogs and cats. On atolls where they are harvested by humans, curlews tend to occur only on uninhabited islets. Consequently, human encroachment in Oceania has probably reduced Bristle-thighed Curlew numbers and altered winter distribution of the species. Future studies should (1) identify concentrations of wintering curlews, focusing in the Tuamotu Archipelago; (2) determine whether migratory stopover sites exist in the central Pacific between Hawaii and the southern end of the wintering grounds; and (3) establish a monitoring programme to assess population trends in several parts of the winter range. A comprehensive plan is needed to provide for the existence of predator-free islands throughout key portions of the winter range.
Population sizes, status and habitat associations of the restricted-range bird species of Sumba, Indonesia
Authors: Jones Martin J. , Linsley Mark D. , Marsden Stuart J.
Published: May 2010

The island of Sumba was visited in 1989 and 1992 with the aim of collecting data on its avifauna. The endemic and other restricted-range bird species are very poorly known and, potentially, at great risk from extinction due to habitat change. Using standardized methods, habitat and bird census data were collected in eight forest areas. Analysis of the habitat data shows that most of the restricted-range species are forest-dependent. The exception is Turnix everetti (Sumba Buttonquail), which is found in open grassland. Discriminant Function Analysis was used to define habitat associations in a more precise and objective way. The species with the most specific requirements are Ptilinopus dohertyi (Red-naped Fruit-dove) and Zoothera dohertyi (Chestnut-backed Thrush), which are associated with primary forest at high altitudes, and Cacatua sulphurea (Sulphur-crested Cockatoo) and Rhyticeros everetti (Sumba Hornbill), which prefer evergreen primary or mature secondary forest at low altitudes. The results of the bird censuses were combined with data on habitat cover from satellite photographs to produce estimates of total population sizes. Among the rarest and most endangered species on Sumba are three which are represented by endemic subspecies: C. sulphurea (estimated population 3,200 birds), Eclectus roratus (Eclectus Parrot) (1,900), Tanygnathus megalorynchos (Great-billed Parrot) (1,700). The rarest endemic species is R. everetti, with a population of approximately 6,500. It is suggested that the census method used – point counts With distance estimates to bird contacts – is the best compromise for multi-species surveys in tropical forests.
Status of the Ivory-billed Woodpecker Campephilus principalis in Cuba: almost certainly extinct
Authors: Lammertink Martjan , Estrada Alberto R.
Published: May 2010

The Ivory-billed Woodpecker Campephilus principalis has suffered from destruction of its habitat over the whole of its range, being last recorded in eastern Cuba (Ojito de Agua) in 1987. The only chance for the species was that the last-known birds had moved to adjacent areas, or that other populations existed in other mountainranges. Between February and May 1993 an extensive search for the species and for suitable habitat was carried out in mountain areas of eastern Cuba. In the surroundings of Ojito de Agua no suitable large old-growth forests remain, and evidence for the absence of Ivory-billed Woodpeckers from the area is discussed. In the region surveyed, only around Pico la Bayamesa in the Sierra Maestra does an almost untouched forest still stand, but this is probably outside the species's original range. Ojito de Agua and Pico la Bayamesa should nevertheless be fully protected. The last known population of Ivory-billed Woodpecker appears to have become extinct in 1989 or 1990. Scaling of bark from dead pines, formerly considered a sure sign of the species's presence, may be caused by weather damage.
Rediscovery of the Sooty Babbler Stachyris herberti in central Vietnam
Authors: Eames Jonathan C. , Lambert Frank R. , Cu Nguyen
Published: May 2010

The Sooty Babbler Stachyris herberti, previously known from five specimens collected in Laos in 1920, was rediscovered in central Vietnam in July 1994. Fieldwork in Phong Nha Cultural and Historical Reserve located a population inhabiting lowland evergreen forest on limestone. The species was recorded on a number of occasions over several days and one female specimen was collected. The species appears to have highly specific ecological requirements and current human disturbance may have implications for its conservation at this site. A revision of its taxonomic position suggests its retention within the genus Stachyris.
Geographical analysis of six rare bird species in the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Hurford J. L. , Lombard A. T. , Kemp A. C. , Benn G. A.
Published: May 2010

Twenty-eight predominantly tropical bird species have ranges that only just extend into the north-eastern part of South Africa, mainly within the Kruger National Park (KNP). These species are listed as “rare” (200 breeding pairs) in the South African Red Data Book (Brooke 1984). This study assesses the extent to which six of these rare bird species represent viable populations in the KNP. Grid squares in the KNP (2.5 × 2.5 miles) were visually assessed according to several bird habitat parameters. Bird records were also plotted on this grid system and habitat associations were identified for each species. This allowed for the measurement of total suitable habitat within the KNP for each species. Bird densities within known habitat were determined using spot-mapping and fixed-distance strip-transect techniques. Estimated population sizes for each species were obtained by extrapolating density estimates to total suitable habitat. Of the six study species, Arnot's Chat, Rudd's Apalis, Wattle-eyed Flycatcher and Tropical Boubou are likely to occur in sufficient numbers to constitute viable populations within the KNP, with estimated population sizes of 1,394, 4/758/ 2,070 and 10,450 birds respectively. The populations of White-crowned Plover and Long-tailed Starling are probably too small to be viable in the long term, with estimated population sizes of 305 and 382 birds respectively. The results presented here are testable and can be used as a baseline for future monitoring.
Threatened birds of the Darién highlands, Panama: a reassessment
Authors: Wege David C.
Published: May 2010

The montane forests of the Darién highlands in eastern Panama and adjacent Colombia embrace the entire ranges of 11 species of bird. By calculating the area which each of these species occupies, a reassessment of their status (using the new IUCN criteria) shows that four should be added to the globally threatened list, on the basis of their ranges being less than 100 km. Although the area which these birds occupy is protected within national parks, a number of threats appear to be compromising their long-term survival, and thus the Darien region urgently requires further conservation attention.
Species concepts and conservation: a response to Hazevoet
Authors: Collar N. J.
Published: May 2010

Whether they are “mere subspecies” or “phylogenetic species”, the omission of such forms from the ICBP (now BirdLife International) Red Data Book (RDB) was my personal decision, and I have long been sensitive to the type of charge contained in Hazevoet's paper (preceding pages). This decision, taken back in 1982, was based on the time, space and cost that would have been involved in the systematic review and inclusion of subspecies (RDBs being much fuller treatments than those in Birds to watch 2, the work criticized for the omission by Hazevoet), and on the fact that the future of the many “full” species needing urgent documentation and action consequently stood to be compromised.
Geographical variation in the abundance of the CorncrakeCrex crexin Europe in relation to the intensity of agriculture
Authors: Green R. E. , Rayment M. D.
Published: May 2010

The CorncrakeCrex crexis a rail which inhabits tall grass and herbage and migrates between breeding grounds in northern Eurasia and wintering areas in south-east Africa. Corncrake populations are known to have been declining for more than 100 years in some countries and declines have now been reported for almost all of the European part of the species's world range. It appears that mechanized mowing early in the breeding season reduces the production of young to a point below that needed to maintain the population. It might therefore be expected that Corncrakes would be least abundant in countries where the management of agricultural grassland is most mechanized and intensive. To test this hypothesis, an analysis of available statistics for agricultural intensity and Corncrake population density in different European countries was undertaken. Milk yield per dairy cow and measures of the use of fertilizers and tractors were used as indices of the intensity of management of agricultural grassland. Corncrakes were least abundant in European countries with high levels of milk yield, fertilizer and tractor use. Countries with low indices of agricultural intensity and high Corncrake abundance are in eastern Europe where continuing political change makes the future course of agricultural development difficult to foresee. The persistence of the Corncrake in this region depends on the adoption of agricultural policies which do not encourage further intensification of grassland management in those areas which support important populations.
Status, conservation and habitat selection of the Houbara BustardChlamydotis undulata fuertaventuraeon Lanzarote (Canary Islands)
Authors: Martín Aurelio , Nogales Manuel , Hernández Miguel A. , Lorenzo Juan Antonio , Medina Félix M. , Rando Juan C.
Published: May 2010

A Houbara survey of Lanzarote and the small island of Graciosa, during December 1993, resulted in a total count of 146 birds and an estimated total population of about 400 Houbaras. These numbers are higher than found on most previous surveys of Fuerteventura, considered as the main stronghold of this subspecies, and indicate that the Houbara population on Lanzarote is much more important than was formerly supposed. A study of habitat preferences showed that the species tended to select zones with greater height of shrubs.
The conservation status of the Socorro MockingbirdMimodes graysoniin 1993–1994
Authors: Martínez-Gómez Juan E. , Curry Robert L.
Published: May 2010

The Socorro MockingbirdMimodes graysoniis endemic to Socorro Island, Mexico, and has declined dramatically in this century. Study of its population size, distribution, and structure is currently under way to help assess its conservation status. In 1993 and 1994 215 Socorro Mockingbirds were ringed; a modified Lincoln index yielded a population estimate of 353 ± 66 individuals in 1994. Most of the birds observed occupied a small region at high elevation that covered less than 10% of the island's area. Average territory size was 1.48 ± 0.71 ha,n= 11. Of the 86 birds banded in 1993 67% were adults and 33% subadults. Of the 170 birds detected in 1994, including new captures and ringed individuals from the previous year, 44% were adults and 56% subadults. In 1993 62% were male and 38% female; in 1994 56% were male and 44% were female. The sex ratio of the population was similar to that of other undisturbed Mimid populations, which argues against the possibility that cats might prey disproportionately on incubating females. Moreover, the presence of young birds in both years indicates that successful reproduction was occurring and that the population was not suffering catastrophic nest failure, as might be caused by cat predation on nestlings or fledglings. Northern MockingbirdsMimus polyglottos, which first arrived on Socorro in the 1970s, occupied mainly open areas produced by sheep grazing, which suggests that the Socorro Mockingbird is not being competitively displaced. Our observations indicate that habitat degradation by sheep is the most probable cause of the Socorro Mockingbird's decline.
A note on the rediscovery of the Sokoke Pipit Anthus sokokensis in the Pugu Hills, Tanzania
Authors: Mlingwa C. O. F.
Published: May 2010

The Sokoke Pipit Anthus sokokensis is endemic to coastal forests in Kenya and Tanzania (Keith et al. 1992). It has been listed as occurring in the Pugu Hills, Tanzania (Howell 1981, Collar and Stuart 1985, 1988), having been first recorded in 1938 (Moreau 1940). Two further records from this area are reported in Collar and Stuart (1985), in 1955 and 1981. Harvey and Howell (1987) noted that, over the period 1968–1978, many visits to the area by a variety of observers, some using mist-nets, failed to locate Sokoke Pipit.
The conservation status of the forest birds of the Taita Hills, Kenya
Authors: Brooks Thomas , Lens Luc , Barnes Jim , Barnes Roger , Kihuria John Kageche , Wilder Christine
Published: May 2010

The forests of the Taita Hills of south-east Kenya are of great importance to conservation, holding three endemic birds and many other endemic taxa. We surveyed birds in their remaining forest fragments in July-August 1996, and followed up these surveys with collection of remote sensing imagery of the area, an assessment of museum specimens and a thorough literature review. In this paper we assess the conservation status in the Taita Hills of their 47 species of forest birds. We conclude with general recommendations for the conservation of the area.
The threatened and near-threatened birds of northern Ussuriland, south-east Russia, and the role of the Bikin River basin in their conservation
Authors: Mikhailov Konstantin E. , Shibnev Yury B.
Published: May 2010

Fieldwork on the distribution, habitat preferences and status of birds was conducted in the Bikin River basin, northern Ussuriland, south-east Russia, during May–July 1992,1993,1995,1996 and 1997. The results of this survey combined with data collected during 1960–1990, show the area to be of high conservation priority and one of the most important for the conservation of Blakiston's Fish Owl Ketupa blakistoni, Chinese Merganser Mergus squamatus, Mandarin Duck Aix galericulata and Hooded Crane Grus monacha. This paper reports on all of the 13 threatened and near-threatened breeding species of northern Ussuriland, with special emphasis on their occurrence and status in the Bikin area. Three more species, included in the Red Data Book of Russia, are also briefly discussed. Maps show the distribution of the breeding sites of the species discussed. The establishment of a nature reserve in the lower Bikin area is suggested as the only way to conserve the virgin Manchurian-type habitats (wetlands and forests), and all 10 species of special conservation concern. Monitoring of the local populations of Blakiston's Fish Owl, Chinese Merganser and Mandarin Duck in the middle Bikin is required.
Notes on the ecology and conservation status of key bird species in Nilo and Nguu North Forest Reserves, Tanzania
Authors: Seddon Nathalie , Ekstrom Jonathan M. M. , Capper David R. , Isherwood Isabel S. , Muna Raymond , Pople Robert G. , Tarimo Ernesti , Timothy Jonas
Published: May 2010

Ornithological surveys were conducted in Tanzanian submontane forest at Nilo Forest Reserve in the East Usambaras and Nguu North Forest Reserve in the Nguu Mountains in July-September 1995. Information on the ecology of poorly known bird species of conservation interest was collected and combined with previously published information to assess their conservation status. Sixteen species of conservation interest were recorded during fieldwork, including five Vulnerable (Usambara Eagle OwlBubo vosseleri, East Coast AkalatSheppardia gunningi, Amani SunbirdAnthreptes pallidigaster, Banded Green SunbirdAnthreptes rubritorquesand Usambara WeaverPloceus nicolli); three Near-threatened (Southern Banded Snake EagleCircaetus fasciolatus, Fischer's TuracoTauraco fischeriand Moreau's SunbirdNectarinia moreaui); one regionally Endangered (Southern HyliotaHyliota australis); one regionally Vulnerable (Uluguru Violet-backed SunbirdAnthreptes neglectus), two regionally Near-threatened (Lemon DoveAplopelia lavataand Evergreen Forest WarblerBradypterus barratti); and 10 in total as restricted-range species (Fischer's Turaco, Usambara Eagle Owl, Sharpe's AkalatSheppardia sharpei, Red-capped Forest WarblerOrthotomus metopias, Spot-throatModulatrix stictigula, Amani Sunbird, Banded Green Sunbird, Moreau's Sunbird, Kenrick's StarlingPoeoptera kenrickiand Usambara Weaver). New information on the ecology of these species is presented in this paper. It is recommended that the conservation status of East Coast Akalat and Uluguru Violet-backed Sunbird be changed to globally Near-threatened and regionally Near-threatened, respectively. Should further work confirm that the Usambara race of Southern Hyliota deserves specific status it is strongly recommended that it be considered globally Endangered. All other species recorded should retain their current status and continue to be monitored. The Nguus represented a new locality for several species. Sharpe's Akalat, Spot-throat, Red-Capped Forest Warbler, otherwise widely distributed throughout the east Tanzania, were absent from the Nguus.
Update on the Vanuatu Megapode Megapodius layardi on Ambrym, Vanuatu
Authors: Foster Tanya
Published: May 2010

A group of villagers in Vanuatu are concerned that continuing development pressures are contributing to the over-exploitation of eggs of the Vanuatu Megapode Megapodius layardi. The Vanuatu Megapode or “namalau” as it is known locally, is endemic to the country and classified as Vulnerable. Repeating a previous survey carried out in 1995, the Vanuatu Protected Areas Initiative mapped and classified the burrows at three communal nesting grounds on north-west Ambrym in November 1996. The number of active and probably active burrows on the beach was low compared with 1995, whereas it was higher on both the raised promontories. The beach nesting site had recently been affected by a cyclone, and storm waves had inundated the area with the highest concentration of burrows. There is concern over the high percentage of megapode burrows checked by villagers at Buwoma, as well as the localized impact visitors could be having. Discussions with villagers raised useful points to be included in the proposed protection plan, particularly the support for a protected area.
Density estimates of birds inhabiting fragments of cloud forest in southern Ecuador
Authors: Jacobs Mark D. , Walker Jon S.
Published: May 2010

Between June and September 1995 estimates were made of the population densities of birds inhabiting fragments of unprotected montane cloud forests in southern Ecuador. The study focused on 10 species: Bearded Guan Penelope barbata, Golden-plumed Parakeet Leptosittaca branickii, Red-faced Parrot Hapalopsittaca pyrrhops, White-capped Parrot Pionus seniloides, Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan Andigena hypoglauca, Barred Fruiteater Pipreola arcuata, Turquoise Jay Cyanolyca turcosa, Great Thrush Turdus fuscater, Hooded Mountain-tanager Buthraupis montana, and Mountain Cacique Cacicus leucoramphus. Species assemblages and population densities varied greatly between sites, despite the presence of similar habitats and altitudinal ranges. Substantial populations of the threatened Bearded Guan, Grey-breasted Mountain-Toucan and Golden-plumed Parakeet were found in areas previously unstudied, as well as in areas previously known to be important. Currently unprotected areas are important for the conservation of montane cloud forest birds.
The life history of the Long-wattled UmbrellabirdCephalopterus penduligerin the Andean foothills of north-west Ecuador: leks, behaviour, ecology and conservation
Authors: Jahn Olaf , Grefa Edwin E. Vargas , Schuchmann Karl-L.
Published: May 2010

The rare and threatened Long-wattled UmbrellabirdCephalopterus penduligerinhabits the canopy and mid-storey level of humid to wet foothill and montane forests (150–1,800 m)of the Andean slopes of south-west Colombia and western Ecuador. Here we report on male activity pattern and display behaviour observed at one of two leks recently discovered in the vicinity of Playa de Oro, Rio Santiago, Esmeraldas Province, north-west Ecuador. Courtship behaviour of C.penduligeris compared with the Central American and Amazonian congeners (Bare-necked UmbrellabirdC. glabricollisand Amazonian Umbrellabird C.ornatus). The lek of C.penduligerwas active during the whole study period (February 1997 to January 1998), but both lek structure and daytime activity pattern changed markedly within the observation period.
The recent distribution of endemic, disjunct and globally uncommon birds in the forests of Kerala State, south-west India
Authors: Zacharias V. J. , Gaston Anthony J.
Published: May 2010

Surveyed the avifaunas of 24 forest areas in Kerala State, south-western India, over the period 1973–1997, recording 309 species. We give details here of distributions and status for all species endemic to South Asia and all those having isolated populations, disjunct from conspecifics in northern India (disjunct species). Most bird species found in Kerala that are endemic to southern India, or form disjunct populations, occur in forest habitats. Those species endemic to the Western Ghats (passerines), or constituting disjunct populations (raptors) tend to have more restricted occurrence than other forest birds. For the passerines this is because they are mainly confined to high elevation forests and grasslands: rather restricted habitats in Kerala. The raptors may be more dependent than other species on large areas of forest and hence may have suffered from recent reductions in forest cover. Current trends in forest clearance for agriculture and plantations and encroachment by settlers, threaten especially the birds of low and middle altitude forests. The present status of such birds as Malabar Pied Hornbill Anthracoceros coronatus, Great Eared Nightjar Eurostopodus macrotis, Lesser Coucal Centropus bengalensis and White-bellied Blue Flycatcher Cyornis pallipes seems to be markedly worse than that described by Ali (1969) for the 1930s. These species, as well as Dollarbird Eurystomus orientalis and Black-crested Baza Aviceda leuphotes, are patchily distributed at low densities and may be vulnerable to extirpation from local areas. Higher altitude habitats, where many endemics occur, cover smaller areas, but are less threatened. However, some species occurring at low densities (Rufous-bellied Eagle Hieraaetus kienerii, White-bellied Shortwing Brachypteryx major, Black-and-orange Flycatcher Ficedula nigrorufa, Broad-tailed Grassbird Schoenicola platyura) may be vulnerable to extirpation or extinction in the long term. Kerala has a large network of protected areas (National Parks, Sanctuaries). Effective protection of those areas should be sufficient to maintain most species, although the coverage of low altitude forest is poor and remaining fragments should be carefully protected. There is continuous pressure on all habitats and bird populations will need to be carefully monitored in future if Kerala's endemic and disjunct populations are to be maintained.
Status of Red-footed Boobies Sula sula on Little Cayman, British West Indies
Authors: Burton Frederic J. , Bradley Patricia E. , Schreiber Elizabeth A. , Schenk Gary A. , Burton Richard W.
Published: May 2010

The island of Little Cayman, in the north-west Caribbean, supports a large breeding colony of Red-footed Boobies Sula sula, within a Ramsar site, the Booby Pond Nature Reserve, protected and managed by the National Trust for the Cayman Islands. Comparison of aerial photographs from 1994 and 1997 shows the colony area unchanged over this time period, occupying 16.5 ha. Area sampling yielded an estimate of 4,839 nesting pairs on Little Cayman in 1997, representing c. 30% of the entire Caribbean population for this species. Low mortality and excellent condition of chicks indicated a very successful breeding year with good food availability. Aerial photography proved to be an effective tool for determining the colony area but nests visible on these images did not correlate sufficiently well with ground data to be considered a viable basis for population monitoring. The 1997 census will serve as an important baseline, as Little Cayman is on the brink of explosive real estate development which is likely to have a severe impact on the island's natural resources over the next decade.
Status of the volcanically threatened Montserrat OrioleIcterus oberiand other forest birds in Montserrat, West Indies
Authors: Arendt W. J. , Gibbons D. W. , Gray G.
Published: May 2010

The Montserrat OrioleIcterus oberiis endemic to the Caribbean island of Montserrat where, prior to 1995, it was widely distributed across the island's three main interior mountain ranges: the Centre, Soufriere and South Soufriere Hills. In July 1995, a long-dormant volcano on Chances Peak in the Soufriere Hills began to erupt. Since then the forest habitat of the oriole on the Soufriere and South Soufriere Hills has been devastated by pyroclastic flows and surges, heavy ash eruptions and rock falls. The Montserrat Oriole populations that inhabited these two mountain ranges have probably been lost. In December 1997, a census of the remaining Centre Hills population was undertaken to assess its status in the face of the heavy ash fall that occurred earlier the same year. To do this, a systematic grid of 140 sample points was overlaid on an area of 1,437.5 n a encompassing the Centre Hills, and a 10-minute count of all bird species was undertaken at 137 of these points during an eight-day survey period. The distance from the point to each oriole detected was measured and records of all other species were allocated to one of five distance bands radiating out from the point. Distance sampling was used to model densities, and thus to estimate population sizes, of eight bird species in the study area. It was estimated that 4,000 (95% CIs 1,500–7,800) Montserrat Orioles remain in the Centre Hills and thus the world. Although the probability of pyroclastic flows and surges overrunning the Centre Hills is considered rerrtote, it is recommended that the Montserrat Oriole be classified as Globally Threatened (Endangered) under the revised IUCN threat categories because of its loss of breeding habitat since 1995.
Foraging use of cultivated fields by the Houbara Bustard Chlamydotis undulata fuertaventurae Rothschild and Hartert, 1894 on Fuerteventura (Canary Islands)
Authors: Medina Félix M.
Published: May 2010

The Houbara Bustard on Fuerteventura uses cultivated fields (gavias) as feeding sites, finding in these a high-level resource of easy access. A total of 521 visits were observed during this study, 81 to abandoned gavias, 139 to cultivated, and 301 to ploughed ones. This use was correlated with the total vegetation cover, as well as with cover by herbaceous plants and by alfalfa Medicago sativa. The relationship with invertebrate abundance was negative. Cultivated gavias were selected in relation to their alfalfa cover, abandoned gavias in relation to their herbaceous cover, and ploughed gavias were selected in relation to total vegetation cover, cover of herbaceous plants, Launaea arborescens and Salsola vermiculata cover, and vegetation height. Figs, present in ploughed gavias only, were a highly favoured food resource. Of the three study localities, Lajares was most visited by Houbaras (357 visits), followed by Triquivijate (105) and Tefía (59). This use was not correlated with the population of Houbaras in each locality but with the resources that were found in them. The gavias were used in all seasons of the year, mainly in summer, and less so in spring. In summer, use was correlated with herbaceous plant cover and associated to the presence of figs, and in winter with herbaceous cover; in autumn there was no overall selection for variables; in spring, selection was negative with respect to invertebrate availability. This predictable food resource is a real advantage for the maintenance of Houbara populations and contributes to the conservation of the species on Fuerteventura.
Population trends and status of the Madeira Laurel Pigeon Columba trocaz
Authors: Oliveira Paulo , Jones Martin , Caires Donato , Menezes Dilia
Published: May 2010

A survey was undertaken in 1995 to assess the conservation status of the Madeira Laurel Pigeon Columba trocaz, a threatened species endemic to the Island of Madeira. The first large scale survey was carried out 1986, following the cessation of legal hunting of the species, to provide a baseline for future monitoring of population changes. The current study therefore aims to (1) compare population size with those of 1986 and (2) employ distance sampling methods (not used in 1986) to obtain estimates of population density and size. Eighteen transects (13 repeated from the 1986 survey and five new) were conducted in the four main areas of laurel forest. Pigeon numbers had increased on nearly all transects but some of the highest increases, proportionately and often numerically, were in areas with lower numbers in 1986. We estimate the current population to be 10,400 individuals, a considerable increase since 1986, probably due to a ban on hunting. As laurel forest habitat is now very well protected the Madeira Laurel Pigeon is relatively safe from extinction.
Monitoring Houbara Bustard Chlamydotis undulata macqueenii distribution, populations and time of occurrence within the Abu Dhabi Emirate using a network of local rangers
Authors: Sheldon Robert , Launay Frédéric
Published: May 2010

The Houbara Bustard is a winter visitor to the United Arab Emirates. Monitoring its population over large areas is difficult, due to the low density of the species and the nature of its habitat. We examined the possibility of using a network of desert rangers in the western region of the Abu Dhabi Emirate to monitor the population, timing of occurrence and distribution of Houbara Bustards in two consecutive winters. Houbara Bustards arrived in Abu Dhabi in September and moved inland towards the south of the country. The last birds were seen in March. Numbers ranged from 56 to 112 in 1994/1995 and 117 to 235 in 1995/1996. Houbara sightings were not evenly distributed within the region, with consistently higher numbers in sand-dune areas. This habitat is not optimal for Houbaras, where, in the past, they were less often encountered. The level of disturbance associated with more favourable habitats may be one reason why the birds are moving to more remote and inaccessible places. The use of a network of local rangers proved to be invaluable for gathering information on the low density Houbara population over a large area and was a very efficient way of monitoring the status of this endangered species.
History of Red-crowned Crane Grus japonensis and its habitats in China
Authors: Ma Zhijun , Wang Zijian , Tang Hongxiao
Published: May 2010

The historical distribution of the Red-crowned Crane Grus japonensis together changes in its breeding and wintering grounds in China are reviewed. According to historical information the bird mainly bred in Heilongjiang and Jilin Provinces and wintered at coastal regions near the Yangtze estuary. Due to geographical and anthropological changes, the breeding grounds gradually moved to the west and south while the wintering grounds moved northward. Efforts have been made to protect this endangered species but factors still exist which restrict further development of the population.
Fate of artificially supported Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis nests in central Florida, U.S.A.
Authors: Rodgers James A.
Published: May 2010

Twenty Florida Snail Kite Rostrhamus sociabilis plumbeus nests in imminent danger of collapsing at four lakes in central Florida, U.S.A. during 1987-1993 were stabilized or artificially supported. Most nests (n=17, 85.0%) were in either cattail Typha spp. or bulrush Scirpus validus. Nine supported nests (45.0%) successfully fledged young; the remaining nests were either abandoned (n=8, 40.0%) or ultimately collapsed (n=3, 15.0%). The overall rate of 0.75 fledgling per nest for supported nests was similar to the 0.79 fledgling per nest for unaltered nests. If the 160 nests that collapsed during the study had been supported, 72 nests saved from collapsing could have produced an additional 54 fledgling kites. Nest support may be effective where kite populations are low or during drought conditions.
Habitat use by the globally endangered Hinde's Babbler Turdoides hindei and its sympatric relative, the Northern Pied Babbler T. hypoleucus
Authors: Njoroge Peter , Bennun Leon A. , Lens Luc
Published: May 2010

We examined and compared territoriality and habitat use of two congeneric babbler species in Kirinyaga district, central Kenya, with the aim of explaining their differences in global conservation status. Hinde's Babbler Turdoides hindei is a scarce, globally Endangered species whereas Northern Pied Babbler T. hypoleucus is much more abundant and widespread, and occurs throughout the range of Hinde's Babbler. Our findings suggested a lack of flexibility in the choice of habitat by Hinde's Babbler, whose territories were centred on a scarce habitat type: Lantana thickets in river valleys or near swamps. The two species showed similar daily foraging ranges but Hinde's Babbler occupied smaller group territories, whose size was not related to group size. Aggressive encounters between the two species occurred over shared feeding grounds, all of which were initiated and won by Hinde's Babbler. Its dependence on Lantana thickets makes Hinde's Babbler highly susceptible to further habitat loss within its range.