bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is the decline of Burrowing OwlsSpeotyto cuniculariain prairie Canada linked to changes in Great Plains ecosystems?
Authors: Clayton Kort M. , Schmutz Josef K.
Published: May 2010

We examined population and ecosystem patterns hoping to inform conservation strategies for Burrowing OwlsSpeotyto cuniculariain Canada. The owls chose moderately to heavily grazed grasslands for nesting and roosting, and avoided cultivated fields. Where grassland patches were isolated in 90% cultivation, owls dispersed later, for shorter distances and less often. Mortality rate during the 5-month study was high (adult ratio 0.45, juveniles 0.55), which may contribute to local declines. Additional mortality may occur on migration and during winter. We extrapolate from local effects (loss of grassland habitat with burrows for roosting, and ~2% “incidental” predation) to suggest that such changes detrimental to the owls occur throughout the central Great Plains ecosystem which the owls occupy year-round. The changes include ecosystem processes such as plant succession, owl dispersal and predation. These changes are likely to be irreversible on a scale that would be required to help this owl. The species may face extinction in Canada, at the northern limit of its range.
Reducing the rat threat to island birds
Authors: Moors P. J. , Atkinson I. A. E. , Sherley G. H.
Published: May 2010

Invasions of alien mammals, particularly predators such as rats Rattus spp., have been a major cause of the disproportionately high number of extinctions of island birds. This paper outlines how introduced rodents affect these birds, describes administrative, management and scientific measures which should be taken to prevent the spread of these mammals to additional islands and to limit their impact, and provides practical information about how to control or eradicate the rodents. We use examples from New Zealand's experiences with islands and rats to illustrate the problems and solutions. The information and recommendations in the paper are directed particularly towards legislators, administrators and managers all over the world who are responsible for the conservation of island faunas. The paper gives examples of rat-free islands deserving the highest level of protection, and a step-by-step checklist for action to minimize the risks of rodent invasion.
Some breeding observations on the Siberian White Crane Grus leucogeranus in the Kolyma lowlands
Authors: Potapov E.
Published: May 2010

Some observations on a pair of Siberian White Cranes Grus leucogeranus were made during 1986-1991 in the Kolyma lowlands, former U.S.S.R. Their nesting habitat and behaviour are described. The diet and food distribution of both adult and chick are discussed. Observations in 1989 and the apparent starvation of a chick in 1991 suggested that narrow (10-20 m wide) strips of floating turf bordering permafrost-formed ponds and lakes may be essential for birds feeding a chick. In 1,050 km2 of tundra there were only 25 km of suitable lakeshore and of this about 18 km were used by the family.
The rediscovery of the São Tomè Grosbeak Neospiza concolor in south-western São Tomé
Authors: Sergeant Dave E. , Gullick Tom , Turner Don A. , (Ian) Sinclair J. C.
Published: May 2010

The São Tomè Grosbeak Neospiza concolor, previously known from three nineteenth century specimens from the southern part of São Tomè, was rediscovered in August 1991, when two birds were seen in a small clearing above the Rio Xufexufe in the remote forests in the south-west of the island.
The status of the White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala
Authors: Green Andy J. , Anstey Simon
Published: May 2010

The former and current status of the White-headed Duck Oxyura leucocephala is reviewed on the basis of recent census data and a literature search. The current world wintering population is estimated at 19,000 birds, with the likelihood that additional birds occur in unsurveyed wetlands in Asia. The population wintering in Pakistan appears to be declining, but there is no good evidence of current decline elsewhere in the range. The population resident in Spain is increasing. The greatest threat to the species is considered to be the spread of the introduced North American Ruddy Duck O. jamaicensis from the U.K. to the continent. Hybrids between the two species are fertile and have already been seen in Spain.
Conservation status of birds on Mindoro, Philippines
Authors: Dutson Guy C. L. , Evans Tom D. , Brooks Thomas M. , Asane Desiderio C. , Timmins Robert J. , Toledo Angela
Published: May 2010

Four weeks of fieldwork in the forests of Mindoro, Philippines, in 1991 has elucidated the status of the six bird species endemic to the island. Of these,Ducula mindorensisandOtus mindorensisare high-altitude species with restricted ranges and in need of active conservation in the medium term. Three of the four lowland species,Gallicolumba platenae, Centropus steerüandPenelopides mindorensisare under immediate threat of extinction through forest clearance and fragmentation, while the fourth,Dicaeum retrocinctum, s i not under immediate threat but is certainly at risk of extinction in the long term. Whilst deforestation is an enormous problem across the entire Philippines, Mindoro is the smallest centre of endemism with the least forest cover after the Sulu Islands. Extinctions are believed inevitable within the next 10 years unless concerted action is urgently taken. The Halcon range must receive attention in order to conserve the montane species, but more urgent by far is the preservation of lowland forest remnants, concentrating on central-west Mindoro.
Status, distribution and ecology of the White-breasted Parakeet Pyrrhura albipectus in Podocarpus National Park, southern Ecuador
Authors: Toyne E. P. , Jeffcote M. T. , Flanagan J. N.
Published: May 2010

The White-breasted Parakeet Pyrrhura albipectus, a threatened parrot known from three general areas of south-east Ecuador, was investigated in the only one of these areas to receive any protection, Podocarpus National Park, in 1990 and 1992. Its habitat there is upper tropical and subtropical forest, with some evidence that it can tolerate disturbed areas; six food-plants were added to the one (liana) already known, two euphorbs, another liana, a Miconia, a Ficus and Mollia gracilis (on which feeding was regular in August and September). Food-passing to one possible and another evident juvenile at this time suggested local breeding. Three adult and one juvenile call were distinguished. The species was found at nine sites in or immediately adjacent to the park, but mining concessions, currently suspended, may soon be granted and the park thereby seriously affected.

Pyrrhura albipectus es un psitácido amenazado conocido exclusivamente en tres zonas del sudeste de Ecuador; en 1990 y 1992 se estudió en el Parque Nacional Podocarpus (única zona donde recibe algun tipo de protectión). El hábitat en el área está constituido por bosque tropical y subtropical de las cotas mas elevadas, con cierta evidencia de que la especie puede tolerar hábitats alterados; seis tipos de plantas se añaden a la dieta hasta ahora conocida para la especie (una liana), éstas incluyen: dos euforbias, otra liana, una Miconia, un Ficus y Mollia gracilis (de la que se alimentaba de forma regular en agosto y septiembre). Se detectó transferencia de alimentos de un adulto a un juvenil y a un segundo posible juvenil, lo que sugiere reproductión local. Se identificó el reclamo de tres adultos y un juvenil. La especie fue localizada en nueve zonas del parque o en su inmediata proximidad, pero concesiones mineras, detenidas en la actualidad, pueden ser subvencionadas con el consiguiente impacto a la integridad del parque.
Some key sites and significant records of birds in the Philippines and Sabah
Authors: Lambert Frank R.
Published: May 2010

Between June 1989 and October 1990 casual records of rare birds were made in Sabah and on Sipadan Island, Malaysia, and on Luzon, Negros, Bohol and Mindanao, Philippines, with additional observations on Palawan and Tawitawi, Philippines, in August and September 1991. Key sites for bird conservation profiled here are the Angat watershed, Quezon National Park and Candaba Marsh (all on Luzon), Mt Canlaon (Negros), Rajah Sukituna National Park (Bohol), Mt Katanglad (Mindanao), remaining forest on both Tawitawi and Sipadan, and the Danum Valley in Sabah. Notes are provided on 31 species of bird, 17 already considered threatened, three near-threatened. While one threatened species (Nicobar PigeonCaloenas nicobarica) should be downlisted, at least six species (Spotted Imperial-pigeonDucula carola, Blue-winged Racquet-tailPrioniturus verticalis, Blue-naped ParrotTanygnathus lucionensis, McGregor's Cuckoo-shrikeCoracina mcgregori, Falcated Wren-babblerPtilocichla falcataand Palawan FlycatcherFicedula platenae) should be elevated to threatened status. Records for other species supplement and reinforce current assessments of threat or indicate new distributional or taxonomic information on non-threatened forms.
Journal editor's note
Authors: Collar N. J.
Published: May 2010

This double issue of Bird Conservation International is a milestone volume in Neotropical bird migration studies that will stand independently on the shelves of many research biologists. We were very pleased to be asked, toward the end of 1993, to become the publication forum for these symposium proceedings, although this has naturally necessitated the journal taking the unusual step of publishing combined issues. There are no current plans to produce symposium volumes of this size on a regular basis, but the journal will continue to publish selected papers from BirdLife (and other important international) symposia. The journal has indeed already carried several papers presented at specialist group meetings in South America (on cracids, parrots) and several further contributions based on these meetings are expected.
A study of fall migration of Nearctic-breeding landbirds in central Costa Rica
Authors: Stiles F. Gary
Published: May 2010

In the course of a 13-year study of fall migration of Nearctic-breeding landbirds through a site in the Valle Central of Costa Rica, 5,549 migrant birds of 63 species, and 782 local residents of 28 species, were banded. Arrival dates of migrant species were fairly constant from year to year with passage migrants tending to arrive earlier than winter resident species. Differences in numbers and timing of first-year vs. older birds were noted in some species. Passage migrants showed higher fat deposits than did winter resident species and were virtually never recaptured in succeeding years, indicating a lack of fidelity to specific stopover sites. Winter resident species were recaptured in years following banding at frequencies approaching those for many resident species. Among winter resident species, individuals arriving early had higher fat deposits and were recaptured less frequently than those arriving later; apparently the latter were most likely to remain for the winter in or near the study area. This arrangement probably reduces intraspecific competition between transient and resident individuals of these species. Both at regional and local levels, migrant and local resident species differed in size distributions and to some extent in diet; these differences may reduce competition between these groups. Resident species had generally ceased to nest by the time the migrants arrivedin large numbers, but usually were feeding fledglings and/or moulting, suggesting that the presence of the migrants does not result in a scarcity of resources. The long-term but low-intensity, low-budget nature of this study may make it feasible to duplicate in many areas of the Neotropics, where information is needed regarding effects of land-use changes on resident and migrant avifaunas.
Variabilidad de recursos, habitat y movimientos estacionales en aves neotropicales: implicaciones para la evolución de la migración a larga distancia
Authors: Levey D. J. , Stiles F. Gary
Published: May 2010

Authors' note At the time this paper was presented at the Quito symposium, it was already accepted for publication in American Naturalist, and consequently it has not been possible to reproduce it in full here. To retain it in some form for this volume, at the request of the editors F.G.S. drafted the version below, which represents an extended Spanish summary; however, for the full text, data and complete analysis it is necessary to consult the original article (Levey and Stiles 1992).
Aggressive competition for critical resources among migratory birds in the Neotropics
Authors: Greenberg Russell , Ortiz Javier Salgado , Caballero Claudia Macias
Published: May 2010

Competition between closely related species of migratory birds is thought to be important in determining their winter distributions, habitat and resource use. However, the role of active dominance interactions has generally been downplayed. In this paper we review the occurrence of interspecific feeding territories among certain Neotropical migrants. Aggressive dominants have been reported primarily at flowering plants, but also at the honeydew from scale insect infestations, the canopy of insect-rich pioneer trees and, occasionally, fruiting trees. Although the phenomenon is uncommon, aggressively dominant species may be important in certain habitats. The presence of such interspecific territorial systems argues for the poverty of resources in the habitat as a whole. Studying aggressive interactions among migrants is a way of using bird behaviour to define critical resources for conservation management.
Implications of altitudinal migration for conservation strategies to protect tropical biodiversity: a case study of the Resplendent QuetzalPharomacrus mocinnoat Monteverde, Costa Rica
Authors: Powell George V. N. , Bjork Robin D.
Published: May 2010

We documented habitat use by the Resplendent QuetzalPharomacrus mocinno, a large frugivorous bird that breeds in cloud-forests in the highlands of Central America, to assess the adequacy of protection afforded to regional biodiversity by the Monteverde reserve complex, a protected natural area that includes most of the highland forests of the Tilarán mountain range in western Costa Rica. Our results demonstrated that this relatively large (20,000 ha) protected natural area does not adequately protect the area's biodiversity. Through the use of radio-telemetry, we identified the areas on the Pacific slopes that are most critical to altirudinally migrating Quetzals. These forest patches are subject to deforestation and degradation and are rapidly becoming further isolated from other remaining forest. The possibility of the local extirpation of the Quetzal, through continued habitat loss on the Pacific slopes, presents an unusual dilemma for the region because the species is the major attraction for the Ideal tourist industry which now includes over 80 businesses and annually generates over US$5 million in local revenue. Therefore, its extirpation would seriously affect regional economic stability. In order to protect the Monteverde Quetzal population, we propose a regional conservation plan that depends on participation of local landowners to protect their remaining forest fragments and allows for the development of corridors to connect critical habitats as the focus of a regional conservation effort. While the ecological significance of the structure of corridors per se, versus other possible formats, is still being debated, we have selected the corridor format primarily because it is relatively easy for landowners to grasp the concept and the necessity for continuity of the corridor network. This recognition provides an important incentive for participation across property boundaries, promoting cooperation in a group effort rather than as isolated actions. Success of this cooperative plan will provide an example for grass-roots participation in buffer-zone management strategies elsewhere in the Neotropics.
Local movements and translocation experiments of resident and migratory birds in southern Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Ramos Mario A. , Rappole John H.
Published: May 2010

A total of 114 individuals of 17 resident and 10 migrant species captured at a rainforest study site in the Tuxtla Mountains of southern Veracruz, Mexico, were displaced to a second rainforest site 2.5 km distant. Return rates to point of capture were high for both groups (73% for resident species versus 74% for migrants). These comparable rates, when considered with evidence that residents can accumulate large fat reserves, indicate that resident species possess key adaptations necessary for migratory movement.

Un total de 114 individuos pertenecientes a 17 especies residentes y 10 migradoras capturados en un enclave de selva húmeda en las montañas de Tuxtla al sur de Veracruz, México, fueron trasladados a un segundo enclave de selva humeda situado a 2.5 km de distancia. Las tasas de retorno al punto de captura fueron altas para los dos grupos (73% para las especies residentes y 74% para las migradoras). Teniendo en cuenta que los residentes pueden acumular grandes reservas de grasa, la similitud de estos resultados indica que estas especies poseen las adaptaciones necesarias para el movimiento migfatorio.
Migration and other movements among the lower Paraná River valley wetlands, Argentina, and the south Brazil/Pantanal wetlands
Authors: Zuquim Antas Paulo de Tarso
Published: May 2010

The southern portion of South America plays an important role for the conservation of many waterfowl and waders. Migratory movements were, till recently, known only for Arctic or Patagonian species. The only exception was the Southern PochardNetta peposaca, with a west—east winter migration from the lower Parana River valley to south Brazil coastal wetlands. The banding studies that have been conducted by the Centro de Pesquisas para a Conservação das Aves Silvestres (CEMAVE/IBAMA) since 1980, directly or through agreements with local organizations, showed more details of this migration, plus indications that other aquatic species such as Chilean FlamingoPhoenicopterus chilensis, other duck species, Neotropic CormorantPhalacrocorax olivaceusand White-facedPlegadis chihimay follow the same pattern. A migration into the same area the Pantanal population of the Wood StorkMycteria americanawas only recently discovered, and other species may also do likewise when the Pantanal is seasonally flooded. The studies of such bird migration or movements between the main South American wetlands are of great importance to understanding their conservation needs, especially when international cooperation among the countries plays a most important role. The region has been suffering human pressures of various types, from land reclamation for pasture and/or agriculture to the operation, in the last 30 years, of big hydroelectric dams which affect the natural flow of rivers or keep flood-plains under water. The impending construction of the Hidrovia Paranà/Paraguay, a large project for heavy river use as a main transportation route, may represent an enormous impact on such rich aquatic habitats, demanding immediate cooperation among the countries involved to mitigate negative effects on the environment. The impact may be similar to what happened in the Mississippi valley early this century. The west-east movements between the Paranà River valley and south Brazil are of special conservation interest, as a nationally threatened species (in Brazil) is involved (the Chilean Flamingo) as well as duck species targeted for the hunting season in the area.
Forest fragmentation in the temperate zone and its effects on migratory songbirds
Authors: Robinson Scott K. , Wilcove David S.
Published: May 2010

Although much attention has been paid to the impacts of tropical deforestation on populations of Neotropical migrants, fragmentation of breeding habitat may be an equally serious problem for many of these birds. Populations of many migrant songbirds have been declining in recent decades, especially within small woodlots. Censuses from woodlots of different sizes also consistently show that many migrant songbirds are area-sensitive, i.e. they are absent from all but the largest woodlots in a region. In contrast, long-term censuses from large, unfragmented forests show few consistent patterns of decline in Neotropical migrants. Population declines are therefore linked to forest fragmentation because they are most pronounced in small, isolated woodlots.
Survival and breeding success of the Osprey Pandion haliaetus in Sweden
Authors: Eriksson Mats O. G. , Wallin Kjell
Published: May 2010

During 1942–1983, the average survival rate of Ospreys in Sweden (as derived from ringing data) was 53% during the first year, and for older birds it varied between 72% and 86% (below the level recorded in North America). The annual survival rate decreased significantly among young birds (1st-3rd years of life) but not among older age classes. A weak relationship between annual survival and rainfall in wintering areas in West Africa may exist for some year-classes.

Breeding success was 2.1 young per successful breeding attempt over the period 1961-1987, which is lower than during 1938-1946. The long-term annual growth rate of the population declined from 7% around 1940 to 5% around 1990.

A local decline in breeding success occurred during the 1960s and 1970s in areas heavily affected by acid precipitation in south-west Sweden, but this trend halted during the 1980s as liming programmes restored the fish stocks in acidified lakes. There was a significant relationship between lake productivity, measured as concentrations of total phosphorus, and breeding success: at 16 lakes breeding success ranged between 1.6 and 2.3 young per nest per year, and at the most oligotrophic lakes breeding success was close to the minimum required to balance mortality.

The Swedish population of the Osprey is not in acute danger, but the decline in the potential for population growth should be noted.
The rediscovery of the Madagascar Red Owl Tyto soumagnei (Grandidier 1878) in north-eastern Madagascar
Authors: Halleux Dominique , Goodman Steven M.
Published: May 2010

The Madagascar Red Owl, known from the eastern rainforest of central Madagascar by a few specimens collected in the nineteenth and early twentieth century and one sight record in 1973, was rediscovered in late July 1993 in north-eastern Madagascar. An adult bird, held in captivity for approximately one year, was located in the town of Andapa. According to the owner, the owl had been obtained south-west of Andapa, near the village of Antanamangotroka, in a forested area connected to the Réserve Spéciale d'Anjanaharibe-Sud, and at about 800 m above sea-level. This record expands the known geographic range of this species and provides the first documentation of its continued existence in over 20 years.

La Chouette de Soumagne, connue de la forêt pluviale orientale du Domaine du Centre de Madagascar à travers quelques spécimens collectés au 19ème siècle et début du 20ème siècle et d'aprés une observation en 1973, a été redécouverte à la fin du mois de juillet 1993 au nord-est de Madagascar. Un individu adulte, qui venait de passer plus d'un an en captivité, a été découvert dans la ville d'Andapa. D'après la personne qui détenait l'animal, la chouette avait été capturee au sud-ouest d'Andapa, pres du village d'Antanamangotroka, au sein d'une zone forestière connectée avec la Réserve Spéciale d'Anjanaharibe-Sud, à une altitude d'environ 800 m au-dessus du niveau de la mer. Cette nouvelle donnée constitue une expansion significative de l'aire de distribution de cette espèce et apporte la preuve de la survie de cette espèce endémique qui n'avait pas été observee depuis plus de 20 ans.
The status of Argentine parrots
Authors: Nores M. , Yzurieta D.
Published: May 2010

Twenty-eight species of parrot have been recorded in Argentina. Most of them inhabit forests in the northern part of the country. The conservation status of Argentine parrotsis serious, especially as regards the large species. Of the 11 species of macaws and amazons that formerly existed there, only four now occur for certain. Today, it is still possible to find flocks of many of the remaining species, but several of them have declined. The main problems affecting these species are habitat destruction, primarily of the Misiones forest, and international trade. The large number of species without authorized export quotas for1993indicates a very good level of protection for these species, but the authorized quotas for the remaining species are generally high.

Veintiocho especies de loros han sido registradas en Argentina, la mayoría de las cuales habitan selvas en el norte del país. El status de conservatión de los loros argentinos es serio, especialmente el de las grandes especies. De las 11 especies de guacamayos y amazonas que existieron antiguamente, sólo cuatro ocurren con seguridad en la actualidad. Aunque todavía es posible encontrar bandadas de muchas de las especies restantes, muchas de ellas han declinado. Los principales problemas que afectan a estas especies son la destruction del habitat, printipalmente las selvas de Misiones, y el comercio international. El gran número de espeties sin cuotas de exportatión autorizadas para 1993 indica un muy buen nivel de protectión para estas espeties, pero las cuotas autorizadas para el resto de las especies son en general altas.
The conservation status of key bird species on Taliabu and the Sula Islands, Indonesia
Authors: Davidson Peter , Stones Tony , Lucking Rob
Published: May 2010

Ornithological surveys were conducted over a seven-week period on Taliabu, Sula Islands, Indonesia in 1991, concentrating on eight species (seven of which have restricted ranges) considered (in 1991) to be threatened and six species (two of which have restricted ranges) considered near-threatened. All of the restricted-range species are dependent on lowland forest, although most persist in secondary habitats, and some also occur in montane forest. Tyto nigrobrunnea was recorded for the first time since the type-specimen was collected in 1938, and is perhaps the most threatened of all the restricted-range birds. Megapodius bernsteinii, Pitta dohertyi, Rhinomyias colonus, Basilornis galeatus and Streptocitta albertinae are threatened in the longer term, primarily by habitat loss. Both Coracina schistacea and C. sula are able to persist in all but the most degraded of habitats. Of the two restricted-range species considered near-threatened, Zoothera erythronota is at greatest risk on Taliabu, apparently restricted to lowland forests. The other, Ptilinopus subgularis, is common in lowland forest and also occurs in montane forest. Little primary lowland forest was found in the areas visited on the island, and identifying remaining areas of this forest type and its relative importance to the birds, especially restricted-range species, should be given highest priority in further surveys. The suitability of a proposed reserve area on the island was evaluated: a larger area of lowland forest than is currently proposed should be afforded protection in order to safeguard the island's characteristic avifauna.
Ecology, status and conservation of the Red-fronted Macaw Ara rubrogenys
Authors: Pitter Elin , Christiansen Mette Bohn
Published: May 2010

A five-month study of the Red-fronted Macaw Ara rubrogenys, endemic to Bolivia, yielded a population estimate of 2,000–4,000 individuals. The species is resident and locally common in, but restricted to, an area in the drainage systems of the Rio Grande, Rio Mizque and northern Rio Pilcomayo. One-third of the population was composed of juveniles some three months after the end of the breeding season. During the dry season, with food apparently short, more of the day was spent feeding than during the wet season. Semi-deciduous vegetation along the rivers produced fruits and seeds that sustained the macaws during the dry season, but the conversion of such areas to arable land forces the macaw to depend for some months on crops and weeds. Local farmers consider the macaw a serious pest on maize.
The threatened and near-threatened birds of Luzon, Philippines, and the role of the Sierra Madre mountains in their conservation
Authors: Poulsen Michael Køie
Published: May 2010

Fieldwork on the distribution, status and ecology of birds was conducted in the northern Sierra Madre mountain range, Luzon, Philippines, during March–May 1991 and March-May 1992. The findings show the area to be one of the most important for conservation of threatened species of birds in all Asia. The results are here combined with evidence from earlier surveys by other searchers. Fourteen threatened and 18 near-threatened species are now known from the area. This paper reports on all the threatened and near-threatened resident species of the island of Luzon, with special emphasis on their occurrence in the Sierra Madre mountains. In addition, the paper treats species with very limited global distribution that breed in Luzon, and lists species of forest birds endemic to the Philippines that have not previously been reported from the Sierra Madre mountains. Maps show the known sites for 17 species of special concern for conservation. New data on the altitudinal distribution of threatened and near-threatened species suggest that it is essential to protect primary forest at all elevations.
Avifauna of North-western Peru Biosphere Reserve and its environs
Authors: Cook A. Gaylon
Published: May 2010

The avifauna of the environs of North-western Peru Biosphere Reserve (NPBR) is herein catalogued. This reserve embraces the largest example of protected Neotropical Pacific xeric forests, a habitat complex much scarcer than rainforests. NPBR is very important conservationally because much of the adjoining dry-forest region of south-western Ecuador has been denuded. Exact locality records and their specific literature sources are furnished for North American migrants and those species which have inhabited the vicinity of NPBR but have not been reported there by the authors of reference books that address avian geography. For each tabulated avian species, the earliest attribution or one of the earliest attributions for a specific record of that taxon in the environs of NPBR is provided. Also, 16 species that are threatened, or are endemic to a short strip of extreme south-western Ecuador and north-western Peru, are noted.
A preliminary survey of birds from the Lac Lobeke Reserve, south-eastern Cameroon
Authors: Smith Thomas B. , Rasmussen Karen K. , Whitney Kenneth D. , Fogiel Mark K.
Published: May 2010

The rainforest avifauna of south-eastern Cameroon is poorly known. In one of the first surveys of birds from this region, we report on bird species netted and observed in the Lac Lobeke Reserve. We document 11 minor range extensions, including that of the extremely rare Zenker's Honeyguide Melignomon zenkeri. The abundance of several rare species of birds and mammals in the area, in addition to low human densities and relative inaccessibility, should make the Lac Lobeke region a priority in conservation efforts. Currently, large logging operations and the commercial exploitation of wildlife threaten the fauna of the region.
Conservation and species lists: taxonomic neglect promotes the extinction of endemic birds, as exemplified by taxa from eastern Atlantic islands
Authors: Hazevoet C. J.
Published: May 2010

When formulating conservation priorities, conservation biologists often rely on published lists of species-level taxa. This paper discusses the nature and taxonomic status of “species” and “subspecies” and different ways of defining “species”. Species are here taken to be terminal and evolutionarily independent units which are qualitatively diagnosable and reproductively cohesive; genealogical biodiversity is thus taken for what it is in the first place, namely the observable result of evolutionary history, an approach which has become known as the phylogenetic species concept (PSC). In contrast to the widely applied Mayrian or “biological” species concept (BSC), no inferences are made about how the degree of morphological differentiation of allopatric but seemingly closely related taxa translates in the absence or presence of reproductive isolation. Many diagnosably distinct endemic island taxa have traditionally been treated as “subspecies” of widespread “polytypic biological” species. At the same time, the “subspecies” category is also used to name arbitrarily delimited sections of intraspecific clinal variation. Thus, the “subspecies” category subjects entirely different evolutionary phenomena to the same hierarchical level through the use of trinomials. Nevertheless, and despite the discrepancy in ontological status among its contents, “subspecies” are usually considered to be of lower evolutionary and/or conservation status than “species” and this has resulted in low conservation priorities allotted to diagnosably distinct island endemics, many of which have traditionally been considered to be “merely Mayrian subspecies”. This has been recognized by some authorities who, because of the threatened status of certain island taxa, advocated treating them binomially in order to generate appropriate conservation measures to save them from extinction, without however justifying their action by any sort of phylogenetic reasoning. Although well intended and sometimes quite successful as regards the follow-up by conservationists, this demonstrates the arbitrary manner in which “species” can be defined under the BSC. Some examples of endemic taxa from eastern Atlantic islands are discussed, demonstrating the way “list thinking” and the lack of phylogenetic reasoning among conservationists translates into the presence or absence of conservation actions. Some of the criticisms of the PSC by adherents of the BSC are discussed. It is advocated that conservationists replace “list thinking” with “lineage thinking”.
Management responses of three species of declining sparrows in tallgrass prairie
Authors: Swengel Scott R.
Published: May 2010

Three species of declining grassland songbirds were counted in June transects at 42 south-western Missouri (U.S.A.) prairie preserves managed three different ways: biennial July haying, spring burning on a 1–4 year cycle, and sites both burned and hayed every 2–4 years. Hayed prairies had twice as many Henslow's SparrowsAmmodramus henslowias burned prairies and 2.5 times as many as sites which had been burned and hayed. Hayed prairies had 59% more Grasshopper SparrowsA. savannarumand 14% more DickcisselsSpiza americanathan burned prairies. Fired and hayed sites had 34% higher detection rates of Grasshopper Sparrows than sites only burned and similar numbers of Henslow's Sparrows and Dickcissels as burned sites. The three species summed were 60% more abundant in hayed as in fired or fired and hayed prairies. Henslow's Sparrows increased and Grasshopper Sparrows decreased with time since the last management. Grasshopper Sparrows peaked one year earlier after haying than after burning. Dickcissels did not vary by time since last management. Henslow's Sparrows and Dickcissels were significantly more abundant in larger prairies. Preserve management for these three prairie birds should emphasize biennial to triennial mid-summer haying, instead of burning.
A preliminary study of the breeding bird community of fallows of cereal steppes in southern Portugal
Authors: Moreira Francisco , Leitão Domingos
Published: May 2010

Counts of breeding birds in fallow land of Castro Verde region, the main steppe area of Portugal, were carried out during the spring of 1994, and the population densities of the most common species were estimated. The bird community is relatively simple, with a low species richness and diversity. Nevertheless, it includes several species with unfavourable conservation status. The most common species were Calandra Lark Melanocorypha calandra and Little Bustard Tetrax tetrax, with a mean density of, respectively, 5.6 and 2.6 males/10 ha. Other breeding species in the studied fallows include Great Bustard Otis tarda, Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra, Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla, Little Owl Athene noctua, Stone Curlew Burhinus oedicnemus, Quail Coturnix coturnix and Fan-tailed Warbler Cisticola juncidis. The results suggest that there are differences in population densities in fallows of different age and grazing intensity.
Ecological interactions and habitat modification in nesting Common Murres, Uria aalge
Authors: Parrish Julia K. , Paine Robert T.
Published: May 2010

Seabird populations suffer from a variety of natural and human-induced sources of mortality and loss of lifetime reproductive output. On the outer coast of Washington State, Common Murre Uria aalge populations have been in decline for approximately the last decade and are currently reproductively active only at Tatoosh Island. These murres nest in two basic habitat types: crevices (25% of the population) and larger cliff-top subcolonies (75%). Murres in cliff-top subcolonies have suffered dramatic reductions in reproductive success in recent years relative to conspecifics nesting in the crevices, primarily due to egg predation by Glaucous-winged Gulls Larus glaucescens and Northwestern Crows Corvus caurinus, facilitated by the presence of Bald Eagles Haliaeetus leucocephalus. Because predator removal is not feasible and creation of additional crevice habitat is difficult, expensive and potentially ineffective, we have designed a temporary habitat modification (the “silk forest”) which replaces the natural vegetation cover and modifies the interaction between murres and eagles. Within the test subcolony, murres nesting under and immediately adjacent to the silk forest produced nearly twice as many eggs per square metre as their conspecifics nesting in adjacent exposed-ground areas.
The making of conservation Action Plans for the Galliformes
Authors: McGowan P. , Dekker R. W. R. J. , Dowell S. , Garson P.
Published: May 2010

Megapodes: an action plan for their conservation 1995–1999) was published in 1995 by the Species Survival Commission of IUCN – The World Conservation Union. It is the twenty-eighth publication in its Action Plan series and the first for any group of birds. Action Plans published under the auspices of the Species Survival Commission are perceived as a means of making information on the status, threats and action required to safeguard species available to conservation planners and others in a position to take action. They are compiled by the appropriate taxon Specialist Group of the Species Survival Commission and their production and implementation is central to the Commission's activities. As well as the megapodes, Action Plans have recently been compiled for the partridges, quails, francolins, snowcocks and guineafowl, and for the pheasants. Stimulating interest in the conservation of these three groups of birds is the responsibility of three Specialist Groups which operate under the joint parentage of the World Pheasant Association, BirdLife International and the Species Survival Commission. The World Pheasant Association is the umbrella organization for five Galliformes Specialist Groups and was the driving force behind the production of these Action Plans, providing the means for the Specialist Groups to compile the information. This paper outlines the scope of these Action Plans and explains how they were compiled in the hope that this may assist the production of Action Plans for other bird groups.
The Vulturine Parrot, Psittrichas fulgidus, a threatened New Guinea endemic: notes on its biology and conservation
Authors: Mack Andrew L. , Wright Debra D.
Published: May 2010

Vulturine Parrots Psittrichas fulgidus are endemic to the island of New Guinea. A review of the literature and specimen holdings indicate the species mostly occurs 500 to 1800 m a.s.l. Observations suggest the species occurs in low densities. The species is a highly specialized frugivore feeding on just a few species of figs (Ficus, Moraceae). These parrots are heavily exploited (often by destroying scarce nesting cavities) in Papua New Guinea for their feathers, used in traditional adornment. This practice might not be sustainable and four possible conservation measures are suggested: (1) increase field studies; (2) restrict transport of live birds on domestic flights; (3) replace use of Psittrichas feathers with dyed chicken feathers; (4) instruct tourists not to purchase handicrafts containing Psittrichas or other animal parts.
Failure of translocated, captive-bred North Island Weka Gallirallus australis greyi to establish a new population
Authors: Bramley Gary N. , Veltman Clare J.
Published: May 2010

Since i960 107 translocations of wild-caught Weka (genus Gallirallus) have occurred in New Zealand. Only four of these Weka liberations resulted in a population that persisted for more than 10 years and only one was successful on the North Island (the resultant population is now believed extinct). The reason for these failures was not known. In 1991 members of the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society commenced breeding North Island Weka Gallirallus australis greyi in captivity for another liberation. Between 1992 and 1996 101 weka were released. We used radio telemetry to follow the fates of the first 17 Weka released in the Karangahake Gorge, near Paeroa, North Island, New Zealand to determine possible outcomes of the liberation. Only one of the 17 birds released survived until 242 days post release. Most newly released Weka were killed by predators, mainly dogs. Future Weka and flightless rail introductions should occur only in areas where predators are being removed to allow survival of released birds and production of young to exceed mortality.
The times they are a-changing?
Authors: Sparks Tim , Crick Humphrey
Published: May 2010

It is clear from recent research that changes are occurring in the timing of many natural events. In most cases it is assumed that the changes, or most of them, are climate related, although associated changes in distribution, habitat quantity and quality, and population size must not be ignored. In this article we present our opinion that study of the timing of features of life cycles is vital in helping to predict the effects of climate change on wildlife. It represents cheap science and yet is extraordinarily good value for money because it generally relies on geographically widespread networks of volunteer observers. The consequences of phenological changes are large and conservationists ignore them at the peril of the wildlife they seek to conserve.
Genetic differentiation, taxonomy and conservation of Australasian tealsAnasspp.
Authors: Daugherty Charles H. , Williams Murray , Hay Jennifer M.
Published: May 2010

Australasian teal consist of five taxa (Anas gracilis, A. castanea, A. chlorotis, A. aucklandicaandA. nesiotis) whose taxonomic identities and relationships have been uncertain. Analysis of variation at 14 allozyme loci indicates limited but clear divergence of New Zealand taxa (A. chlorotis, A. aucklandica, A. nesiotis), in agreement with previous studies of morphological variation. The New Zealand taxa are “terminal and evolutionarily independent units” that clearly meet the criteria for specific recognition in line with the phylogenetic species concept (PSC). Because each is also geographically restricted and has small world population size, specific recognition supports increased conservation status for each. The three New Zealand species do not form a sister group withA. castanea, as previously hypothesized; instead,A. castaneaandA. gracilisare sister taxa.
Status of Raso LarkAlauda razaewith notes on threats and foraging behaviour
Authors: Ratcliffe Norman , Monteiro Luis R. , Hazevoet Cornelis J.
Published: May 2010

The Raso LarkAlauda razaeis a globally endangered species that is endemic to the islet of Raso (16°93′ N, 24°38′ W) in the Cape Verde archipelago (Collaret al.1994). Raso is a small (c.7 km2) uninhabited islet with a plain averaging 25 m in elevation to the south and west and small boulder-strewn hills to the north and east rising up to 164 m (Figure 1). The islet comprises mostly rocky desert, with some extensive sandy patches on the western plain. Vegetation is sparse and confined to small patches on the plains and along dry river valleys.
The impact of human forest disturbance on the endemic avifauna of the Udzungwa Mountains, Tanzania
Authors: Fjeldså Jon
Published: May 2010

Studies of how avian communities are affected by human forest disturbance have given variable results. In order to focus conservation efforts we need comparative data for studying the relationship between community resilience and ecological predictability over much longer periods of time. This paper compares avian communities in mature forest and adjacent disturbed forest at a site in the Tanzania-Malawi Mountains which has probably had humid forest cover permanently since the Tertiary. At the same time the study presents a possible model design for such studies, which may be a suitable compromise between the needs for quantitative data and logistical constraints during exploratory visits to areas difficult of access. The method is highly time efficient as it is based on continuous recording of all birds during “random” walking through the forest. There were at least 70 species in disturbed, against 61–65 species in different kinds of adjacent mature forest, but with a marked loss of range-restricted species as we passed from mature to disturbed forest. Most seriously affected were birds of the shaded forest understorey, but also the larger insectivores of mixed canopy feeding parties declined. These species search for food in the masses of epiphytic lichens, mosses and ferns in mature forest canopies. Comments are given on the specific requirements of six species of conservation concern.
Distribution of birds along an elevational gradient in the Atlantic forest of Brazil: implications for the conservation of endemic and endangered species
Authors: Goerck Jaqueline M.
Published: May 2010

In this study I compare bird communities along an elevational gradient in an Atlantic forest remnant (Pico do Corcovado in Ubatuba) in coastal Sao Paulo state, Brazil. Forests at low elevations are structurally more complex and more diverse in plant species than those along the slopes and at higher elevations in this remnant. Consequently it is hypothesized that low elevation forests contain a greater diversity of bird species. Results from the study in the Corcovado area show clear differences in the distribution of forest birds along the elevational gradient from both qualitative and quantitative aspects. The structurally more complex forest at low elevations contains the most diverse avifauna, including several of the rarest and most threatened species. The importance of this remnant as a whole is apparent due to the high diversity observed (254 species), the high proportion of endemic species, and the extent to which the avifauna is endangered. Protection of forests at all elevations along the Serra do Mar is required to maintain diversity of bird species, particularly the many endemic and endangered species restricted to specific elevations.
Managing a breeding population of the Hooded Plover Thinornis rubricollis in a high-use recreational environment
Authors: Dowling Bernice , Weston Michael A.
Published: May 2010

Mornington Peninsula National Park, Victoria, Australia, is heavily used by recreationists. It also holds a breeding population of the Hooded Plover Thinornis rubricollis, a rare endemic shorebird. We monitored the population of plovers over seven breeding seasons, 1991–1998. Mortality of nests (about 60%), and of chicks (over 70%) was high, but preliminary data suggests mortality was low in juveniles. The major cause of mortality of nests was trampling by people. The causes of mortality in chicks is unknown, but mortality was age dependent, and was highest in the youngest chicks. A combination of management techniques that have been phased into operation over the seven years of the study appear to be increasing the reproductive success of the population.