bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
OWL ASSEMBLAGES IN FRAGMENTS OF ATLANTIC FOREST IN BRAZIL
Authors: Claudino Ricardo Marcelino , Motta-Junior José Carlos , Antonini Yasmine
Published: February 2023

Abstract · Habitat loss and fragmentation is recognized as one of the main causes of global biodiversity declines. Birds of prey are considered good environmental bioindicators because they are sensitive to changes in the environment and can suffer local extinctions due to habitat fragmentation. In this study, we aimed to determine whether forest fragment area is correlated with the richness and abundance of owl species, and whether owl species recorded exhibit preferences for fragment edge or interior. The study was undertaken in six remnants of southeastern Atlantic Forest located in Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Six species of owls were recorded: Buff-fronted Owl (Aegolius harrisii), Tropical Screech-Owl (Megascops choliba), Tawny-browed Owl (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana), Striped Owl (Asio clamator), Mottled Owl (Strix virgata), and Rusty-barred Owl (Strix hylophila). Megascops choliba was the most abundant species. The richness and abundance of species were higher at the edge when compared to the interior of the fragments. The owl species recorded did not seem to prefer the forest interior, while M. choliba had a preference for forest edges. This study adds new empirical knowledge on the effects of fragmentation on Neotropical owl communities.Resumen · Comunidades de lechuzas y búhos en fragmentos de bosque Atlántico en Brasil El proceso de pérdida y fragmentación del hábitat se identifica como una de las principales causas del declive de la biodiversidad mundial. Las aves de presa se consideran un buen bioindicador ambiental porque son sensibles a los cambios en el medio ambiente y pueden extinguirse localmente con la fragmentación del bosque. El objetivo del estudio fue responder a las siguientes preguntas: ¿La fragmentación de los bosques influyen en la riqueza y abundancia de las especies de búhos? ¿Las especies de búho tienen preferencia por el borde o el interior de los fragmentos del bosque? El estudio se llevó a cabo de octubre de 2011 a septiembre de 2012 en seis localidades de la Mata Atlántica suroriental, ubicadas en el estado de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Seis especies de búhos fueron registradas: Lechucita Acanelada (Aegolius harrisii), Currucutú Común (Megascops choliba), Lechuzón Mocho Chico (Pulsatrix koeniswaldiana), Búho Gritón (Asio clamator), Mocho Carijó (Strix virgata) y Rusty-barred Owl (Strix hylophila). M. choliba fue la especie más abundante. La riqueza y abundancia de especies fue mayor en el borde comparado con el interior de los fragmentos. La comunidad de búhos en nuestra área de estudio no parece tener preferencia por el interior del bosque, sin embargo, M. choliba es más abundante en los bordes del bosque. Este estudio aporta nuevos conocimientos sobre la riqueza y abundancia de los búhos Neotropicales y su respuesta a la fragmentación de la Mata Atlántica.
SEASONAL CHANGES IN BIRD ASSEMBLAGES OF A FOREST-STEPPE ECOTONE IN NORTH PATAGONIA
Authors: Cueto Victor Rodolfo , Gorosito Cristian A.
Published: February 2023

Abstract ∙ We studied seasonal variation in a community of birds inhabiting a forest–steppe ecotone of north Patagonia. We analyzed changes in species richness, species composition and total abundance, and, at the species level, we evaluated differences in breeding and molting seasonality. The bird assemblage showed a low seasonal variation in richness and total abundance, but a great change in species composition between spring–summer and fall–winter. The change in species composition did not lead to changes in richness and total abundance, due to the presence of abundant species that visit the area in different seasons. At the species level, resident birds and short distance migrants tended to begin breeding earlier than long distance migrants, and those bird species began to molt body and flight feathers after breeding. Therefore, we found a low overlap between these two energetically demanding activities. Elaenia albiceps, the only long-distance migrant species, did not molt body and flight feathers in our study area. Our results highlight the importance of bird movements in response to seasonal variations in the availability of resources, which promote migration or local displacements of birds. Resumen ∙ Cambios estacionales en los ensambles de aves en un ecotono bosque–estepa del norte de Patagonia Estudiamos las variaciones estacionales en una comunidad de aves que habitan el ecotono bosque-estepa del norte de Patagonia. Analizamos los cambios en la riqueza de especies, la composición de especies y la abundancia total, y a nivel de las especies, evaluamos las diferencias en la estacionalidad reproductiva y de muda. El ensamble de aves mostró pocas variaciones estacionales en la riqueza y abundancia total, pero un notable cambio en la composición de especies entre la primavera–verano y el otoño–invierno. El cambio en la composición de especies no promovió variaciones estacionales en la riqueza y la abundancia total, debido a la presencia de especies abundantes que visitan el área en las diferentes estaciones. A nivel de las especies, las aves residentes y migrantes de corta distancia tendieron a comenzar la reproducción antes que las migrantes de larga distancia, y aquellas especies de aves comenzaron la muda de plumas del cuerpo y del ala al finalizar la reproducción. Por lo cual encontramos una baja superposición de estas dos demandantes actividades. Elaenia albiceps, la única especie migradora de larga distancia, no presentó muda corporal o del plumaje de vuelo en nuestra área de estudio. Nuestros resultados remarcan la importancia del movimiento de las aves en respuesta a las variaciones en la disponibilidad de recursos, que promueven la migración o el desplazamiento local de las aves.
DEMOGRAPHIC HISTORY OF THE ORANGE-FRONTED PARAKEET (EUPSITTULA CANICULARIS) IN MEXICO
Authors: Padilla-Jacobo Gabriela , Monterrubio-Rico Tiberio Cesar , Cano-Camacho Horacio , Zavala Páramo María Guadalupe
Published: February 2023

Abstract ∙ Molecular analyses can contribute to an understanding of the present and past demography of a species. In this study, we analyzed genetic diversity, intraspecific divergence patterns and historical demography of the Orange-fronted Parakeet (Eupsittula canicularis) using molecular data obtained from biological samples collected on the Pacific slope of México from Sinaloa to Guerrero. In addition, we analyzed the possible effect of Quaternary climatic changes on the population of this species. Based on genetic differentiation, and genealogical relationships analysis, we identified three genetic groups with overlapping geographical distributions on the north coast of Michoacán. Apparently, an ancestral group in the Balsas Basin underwent diversification and range expansion, initially towards the north coast of Michoacán and later northward along the Pacific slope to Sinaloa, and southward to the coast of Guerrero. Our results of skyline plot analysis suggest that a population expansion occurred during the Upper Pleistocene. The present analysis contributes to the knowledge of the phylogeographic pattern of E. canicularis in the tropical dry forest of western México, and identifies the Balsas Basin as an important center of diversification for the species.Resumen ∙ Historia demográfica del Periquito Frente-naranja (Eupsittula canicularis) en México Los análisis moleculares pueden contribuir a la comprensión de la demografía actual e histórica de una especie. En este estudio analizamos la diversidad genética, el patrón de divergencia intraespecífica y la demografía histórica del Periquito Frente-naranja (Eupsittula canicularis) utilizando datos moleculares obtenidos de muestras biológicas colectadas en la vertiente del Pacífico desde Sinaloa hasta Guerrero, México. Además, analizamos el posible efecto de los cambios climáticos del Cuaternario sobre la población de esta especie. Con base en el análisis de diferenciación genética y relaciones genealógicas, identificamos tres grupos genéticos que sobrelapan su distribución geográfica en la costa del norte de Michoacán. Aparentemente, un grupo ancestral con distribución en la Cuenca del Balsas sufrió diversificación y expansión de rango hacia la costa norte de Michoacán y por la vertiente del Pacífico hacia el norte hasta Sinaloa, y hacia el sur hasta la costa de Guerrero. Los resultados de los análisis de “skyline plot” sugieren una expansión de la población que ocurrió durante el Pleistoceno superior. El presente análisis contribuye al conocimiento del patrón filogeográfico de E. canicularis en el bosque tropical seco del oeste de México, e identifica a la cuenca del Balsas como un importante centro de diversificación para la especie.
PATTERNS OF NEST ORIENTATION IN THE GOLDEN BILLED SALTATOR (SALTATOR AURANTIIROSTRIS) IN CENTRAL ARGENTINA
Authors: Schaaf Alejandro Alberto , Rojas Tobias , Diaz Agustín , Peluc Susana
Published: February 2023

Abstract · In birds, nest location defines the microclimatic conditions for the development of eggs and nestlings. In general, direct solar radiation and wind are the main determinants of bird nest orientation patterns. In this study, we analyzed the orientation pattern of nests of the Golden-billed Saltator (Saltator aurantiirostris) in central Argentina. The nests were mainly oriented towards the north side of the substrate plant, with greater concealment from the south and west. Nest mean orientation in the species matches the conditions of higher solar radiation in the plant, although the vegetation concealment from above and west may compensate for the high exposure to solar radiation in the species. Nests were also placed in sites further from the foliage edge and were supported by more branches, variables that may be associated with reduced risk of nest predation. Overall our results show that the selection of nesting sites in the Golden-billed Saltator may involve a number of decisions to maximize microclimatic conditions that may aid the thermoregulation of eggs and nestlings, while minimizing the risk of nest predation. Resumen · Patrón de orientación de los nidos de Pepitero de collar (Saltator aurantiirostris) en el centro de Argentina En las aves la ubicación del nido define las condiciones microclimáticas para el desarrollo de los huevos y los pichones. En general, la radiación solar directa y el viento son los principales determinantes de los patrones de orientación del nido de las aves. En este estudio analizamos el patrón de orientación de los nidos de Pepitero de Collar (Saltator aurantirostris) en el centro de Argentina. Encontramos que los nidos naturales estaban orientados hacia el lado norte de la planta soporte, con un alto porcentaje de cobertura superior y del oeste. La orientación media de los nidos coincide con las condiciones de mayor radiación solar dentro de la planta, sin embargo la cubierta vegetal ayuda a compensar la alta exposición solar. Los nidos estaban colocados en sitios más alejados del borde foliar de la planta y sostenidos por más ramas, variables que pueden asociarse con un menor riesgo de depredación de nidos. En general, nuestros resultados muestran que la selección de sitios de anidación en el Pepitero de Collar puede implicar una serie de decisiones para maximizar las condiciones microclimáticas que ayuden a la termorregulación de huevos y pichones, al mismo tiempo que se minimiza el riesgo de depredación de nidos.
THE MOLT ISSUE: WHERE DO WE GO FROM NOW?
Authors: Rueda‐Hernández Rafael , Guallar  Santiago , Ruiz‐Sánchez Angelina , Pyle Peter
Published: February 2023

No abstract.
PUNTOS CALIENTES Y FACTORES ASOCIADOS AL ATROPELLO DE AVES RAPACES EN UNA RUTA COSTERA DE LA ZONA SEMIÁRIDA DE CHILE CENTRAL
Authors: Bravo Naranjo Víctor , Piñones Cañete César , Norambuena Heraldo , Zuleta Carlos
Published: February 2023

The pressures of road infrastructure on wildlife are among the eleven main threats to biodiversity conservation. Birds are one of the most threatened groups, mainly through direct collisions with road traffic and the fragmentation of their habitats. We characterized the assem- blage of raptors that were impacted on a coastal highway in central Chile and analyzed the possible relationship between areas with high impact density and some landscape variables. Between April 2016 and June 2017 we registered 86 raptor carcasses, nine species belonging to five different families, among which Tyto alba, Milvago chimango, and Bubo virginianus were the birds with a higher frequency of road- kills. These impacts were concentrated between February and April 2017. In the sections studied, we detected eight hot spots that included 37% of the impacts and found at least five variables related to these road kill hot spots: i) A larger surface covered with trees, ii) a small number of lighting poles, iii) sites closer to creeks, iv) road sections without curves, and v) double tracks would favor roadkills for these birds in the studied site. Additionally, collisions for the different species of raptors recorded in this study could be due to the availability of prey on the edges of the road, their foraging strategies, and the ecology of these birds, especially during breeding season.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE RANGE AND NESTING BIOLOGY OF THE MEXICAN ENDEMIC RUFOUS-CAPPED BRUSH-FINCH (ATLAPETES PILEATUS PILEATUS)
Authors: Greeney Harold Francis , Port Jeff , Van Riper III Charles
Published: February 2023

Abstract ∙ The Rufous-capped Brush-finch (Atlapetes pileatus) is a species endemic to Mexico, whose breeding biology has received little attention. We studied two nests of the nominate subspecies from the mountains of southern Sonora. Nests were untidy, broad, open cups, placed in low, thick vegetation. Clutch size at one nest consisted of three immaculate white eggs. The second nest contained two Brush-finch nestlings and one cowbird (Molothrus sp.) nestling. Both parents brought food to the nestlings, but delivered significantly more food to the cowbird nestling. Most of our observations of nest architecture, egg coloration, and adult behaviors are consistent with previous descriptions for Rufous-capped Brush-finch and other members of the genus Atlapetes. This is the first report of cowbird brood-parasitism on the Rufous-capped Brush-finch, as well as the first confirmed record of breeding by this species in Sonora.Resumen ∙ Observaciones sobre el rango y biología reproductiva del Atlapetes Gorrirrufo (Atlapetes pileatus pileatus) El Atlapetes Gorrirrufo (Atlapetes pileatus) es una especie endémica de México cuya biología reproductiva ha recibido poca atención. Estudiamos dos nidos de la subespecie nominal en las montañas del sur de Sonora. Los nidos eran tazas abiertas, desordenadas, anchas, y colocados en vegetación baja y espesa. El tamaño de postura en un nido era de tres huevos blancos inmaculados. El segundo nido contenía dos polluelos del Atlapetes Gorrirrufo y un polluelo del tordo (Molothrus sp.). Ambos padres llevaron comida a los pichones, entregando significativamente más comida al polluelo del tordo. La mayoría de nuestras observaciones sobre la arquitectura de los nidos, la coloración de los huevos y los comportamientos de los adultos son congruentes con las descripciones anteriores del Atlapetes Gorrirrufo y otros miembros del género Atlapetes. Este es el primer informe de parasitismo de nido de Atlapetes Gorrirrufo por un pájaro tordo, así como el primer registro confirmado de la reproducción de esta especie en Sonora.
COLOR ABERRATIONS IN TWO SPECIES OF NEW WORLD VULTURES (CATHARTIDAE)
Authors: Mora Jose Manuel , Rodríguez-Ruíz Erick Rubén
Published: February 2023

Abstract ∙ We present information on two cases of color aberrations in two species of vultures: one individual of Turkey Vulture (Cathartes aura) in Mexico and one of Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) in Costa Rica. Both cases were determined to be ino, wherein birds have very pale brown eumelanin. We discuss these two cases and compare them with other cases of abnormally colored vultures from several island and mainland areas in America. Resumen ∙ Aberración de color en dos especies de buitres del Nuevo mundo Presentamos información sobre dos casos de anormalidad pigmentaria en dos especies de buitres: un individuo de Zopilote Aura (Cathartes aura) en México y otro de Zopilote Negro (Coragyps atratus) en Costa Rica. Ambos casos fueron determinados como ino, donde las aves tienen eumelanina café muy pálida. Discutimos estos dos casos y los comparamos con otros casos de buitres de coloración anormal de varias áreas continentales e islas en América.
AN UPDATE ON THE BREEDING BIOLOGY AND BIOMETRY OF HAUXWELL’S THRUSH (TURDUS HAUXWELLI) FROM LOWLAND SOUTHWESTERN BRAZILIAN AMAZON
Authors: Guilherme Edson , Lima Jônatas M.
Published: February 2023

The Neotropical region is home to a large number of species of the genus Turdus. While the breeding biology of this genus is well known in general, data are scant for some Amazonian species, including Hauxwell’s Thrush (Turdus hauxwelli). Here, we present new data on the breeding and biometry of T. hauxwelli based on field observations and captures in a fragment of terra firme forest in southwestern Amazonia, Brazil. We monitored six active nests between 2012 and 2014, and collected data on the incubation and nestling phases on five nests. The nests were built at a mean height of 1.9 m (range: 0.53–3.2 m) above the ground. We estimated incubation time as 13–14 days. We monitored the development of 11 nestlings in four nests. The mean weight of the newly-hatched nestlings was 6.56 g (range: 4.3–9.0 g [SD = 2.27]). The constant (K) of the growth rate in the nestlings was 0.43 (range: 0.31–0.51; SE=0.03), with an asymptote of 51.1 g (range: 45.04 - 62.32; SE= 0.31). The daily survival rate of the nests during the incubation phase was 97%. However, the survival rate during the nestling phase was only 12%. Mayfield’s success was 70% during the incubation phase and 21% during the development of the nestlings, whereas apparent success was 75% in the incubation phase and 27% in the nestling phase. We banded and measured 64 adult individuals, 13 juveniles, and four nestlings in 2005 and between 2009 and 2017. Minimum longevity, calculated from the recapture of banded individuals, was 6 years, 3 months and 11 days (or 2298 days after banding). Our results indicate that T. hauxwelli has a breeding season restricted to a few months of the rainy season (November–March), which overlaps with molt.
A RECORD OF “DILUTION” PLUMAGE ABERRATION IN THE RUFESCENT TIGER-HERON (TIGRISOMA LINEATUM)
Authors: Benítez Riveros Camilo , Ortíz Velázquez Edder
Published: February 2023

Plumage aberrations are common in wild birds; however, there are few documented records for most Neotropical bird species. Here, we present the first documented record of dilution plumage aberration in Rufescent Tiger-Heron (Tigrisoma lineatum). In August 2017, we observed an individual of Rufescent Tiger-Heron with a “diluted” plumage coloration compared to the typical coloration for this species. With yellowish-brown feathers in head and neck, and especially a pale gray coloration in upperparts, the overall appearance seems to be, most likely, a case of “Pastel” dilution aberration. However, the pale gray tones may have been caused by the light conditions during obser- vation which make it difficult to determine the dilution type with certainty. The documentation of these cases can be a valuable source of information to understand chromatic aberrations and variations between different groups of birds.
Book Review: Birds of Ecuador.
Authors: Greeney Harold F.
Published: February 2023

No abstract.
GPS TRACKING OF THE FORAGING MOVEMENTS OF OILBIRDS (STEATORNIS CARIPENSIS) FROM THE DUNSTON CAVE AT ASA WRIGHT NATURE CENTRE, TRINIDAD
Authors: Oehler David Allen , Rutherford Mike G. , La Bruna Danielle , Chu Foon Kimberly , Weakly, Jr Leonard
Published: February 2023

The ranging behaviors of the Oilbird (Steatornis caripensis) in Trinidad are not well defined and are required to better outline fu- ture conservation management parameters for this species. Due to the nocturnal foraging behaviors of the Oilbird, past observations were restricted to colony site observations, video recordings, and limited electronic tracking over short periods. Utilizing newly developed small- scale Global Positioning System (GPS) data loggers, we were able to determine the flight and foraging behaviors of two oilbirds that roost at the Asa Wright Nature Centre for up to 270 days. The use of backpack style GPS tracking devices provided high site resolution and accuracy of the movements and a better understanding of the annual foraging behaviors of the oilbirds in the Asa Wright Nature Centre colony. The oilbirds’ home range was determined to be 3,564.6 km2, with an average trip distance from Dunston Cave of 7.33 km, excluding an interme- diary migration point in Venezuela. 48.5% of the foraging area consisted of locations within the Northern Range, while 27.7% of these trips remained within the Arima Valley, which is only partially protected from quarrying activities. This data document the previously unknown patterns of habitat use of the Oilbird and serves as a pilot study to determine the conservation importance of those habitats for the develop- ment of long-term conservation action plans for these iconic birds.
RELATIVE ABUNDANCE AND MICROHABITAT OF FOUR SYMPATRIC ANTPITTAS IN AN INTERANDEAN VALLEY OF SOUTHERN ECUADOR
Authors: Aguilar M. Gabriela , Barnuevo Eduardo , Nieto Andrea , Latta Steven C. , Tinoco Boris A.
Published: February 2023

Exploring mechanisms that determine species coexistence is a key step to understand community organization and patterns of distribution of biodiversity. Anpittas, genus Grallaria, offer a great opportunity to measure coexistence mechanisms among closely related species. Antpittas are terrestrial insectivores with a specialized foraging technique and limited dispersal abilities; these factors could produce high levels of niche overlap and consequently reduce the chances of stable coexistence. We explored niche partitioning in space among four antpitta species (Rufous Antpitta, Chesnut-crowned Antpitta, Undulated Antpitta, Tawny Antpitta) which coexist in a tropical Andean valley located in southern Ecuador. We determined the abundance of each antpitta species in mature native forest, shrub, pasture, and páramo habitats, and gathered data about the microhabitat of each species. Abundance was determined using point counts, territories were located by triangulating on individual calls, and microhabitat characteristics were measured within each territory. We found no differences in the abundance or probability of occurrence of species among habitats for Rufous Antpitta, Chesnut-crowned Antpitta, and Undulated Anpitta, but Tawny Antpitta was restricted to páramo. At the microhabitat level, Rufous and Chesnut-crowned Antpittas shared similar vegetation characteristics, with the important presence of shrubs. Undulated Antpitta occurred in a microhabitat characterized by the presence of trees and a ground cover of mosses, while Tawny Antpitta occupied microhabitats with an open vegetation. In general our results suggest that closely related birds could partition their niche at different spatial scales, which could promote the coexistence of species in the tropical Andes.
NESTING INFORMATION FOR THE BROWN-WINGED SCHIFFORNIS (SCHIFFORNIS TURDINA)
Authors: Cantero Guerrero Margarita Maria , Muñoz Jenny , Londoño Gustavo Adolfo
Published: February 2023

We present a description of the nest, eggs and limited incubation behavior for the Brown-winged Schiffornis (Schiffornis turdina), a member of the taxonomically challenging Schiffornis taxon, currently included in the family Tityridae. The nest was an open cup, located in a natural crevice between tree roots, and made up largely of dead leaves and dark rootlets. The nest contained two pale cream-colored eggs with black and dark purple blotches. An adult spent 66.45% of the daytime incubating the eggs. The incubation was interrupted by the preda- tion of the incubating adult by a mouse opossum (Marmosa sp.). Overall, the nest and egg characteristics, clutch size and incubation patterns resembled the available nesting information for other Schiffornis species. However, more detailed information about the natural history is needed to understand the nesting biology for the genus Schiffornis and therein lies the importance of long-term studies.
LIVE FENCES HAVE GREATER DIVERSITY OF BIRD ASSEMBLAGES THAN GALLERY FORESTS IN HUMAN-MODIFIED ECOSYSTEMS
Authors: Maglianesi María Alejandra
Published: February 2023

Anthropogenic activities have led to changes in land use resulting in fragmented areas with a reduction of biodiversity and ecosystem services. Gallery forests and live fences are common elements in Neotropical agricultural landscapes that could contribute to the conservation of bird species and the services they provide. However, we need to better understand how different tree cover types influence bird assemblages in order to conserve biodiversity. I analysed the diversity of bird assemblages in space and time across two cover types in three agricultural-livestock farms in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Bird assemblages were sampled during 2019 using transects, covering both the dry and rainy season. I estimated richness and relative abundance of bird assemblages at each tree cover type and site. To characterize vegetation structure, I calculated plant richness, diameter at breast height and tree height. Patterns in bird diversity changed at a spatial scale, whereas remained similar in time. Bird assemblages had consistently higher richness and abundance in live fence than in gallery forest in the three study sites. In addition, live fences resulted in a less structural complexity compared to gallery forest, as indicated by decreased plant richness and tree height. My results show that live fences play an important role for birds, allowing for more diverse avian assemblages in human-modified ecosystems. Although live fences are less structurally complex and may offer less suitable habitats for birds than gallery forests, they might provide complementary food resources and act as stepping-stones for both resident and migratory bird species. Thus, live fences may perform as corridors for birds increasing connectivity in rural landscapes, which make them an essential tool for bird conservation.
ÁREAS DE ESCALA MIGRATORIA Y DORMIDERO COMUNITARIO DEL AGUILUCHO CHICO (BUTEO ALBIGULA) DURANTE SU MIGRACIÓN HACIA EL NORTE EN LOS ANDES
Authors: Rivas Fuenzalida Tomás Antonio , Quispe-Flores Yisela
Published: February 2023

El aguilucho chico (Buteo albigula) es el único Accipitridae sudamericano que realiza migraciones transecuatoriales en el sistema Austral-neotropical, y hasta ahora conocemos muy poco sobre su ecología migratoria. Aquí describimos el uso de áreas de escala y dormide-ro comunitario por parte de esta especie durante su migración hacia el norte en el otoño austral. Registramos un dormidero comunitario, ocupado por hasta 15 individuos simultáneamente, en una pequeña plantación de eucaliptos (Eucalyptus globulus) en Putre (extremo norte de Chile, 3.500 m s.n.m.). En el Valle del Mantaro (centro de Perú, 3.250 m s.n.m.) observamos varios individuos cazando en áreas agrícolas y descansando en plantaciones de eucaliptos. Uno de ellos (seguido por telemetría satelital) permaneció en el área por 17 días, para luego continuar su migración hacia el norte. Nuestras observaciones revelan la existencia de zonas de congregación temporal del aguilucho chico que son importantes para su conservación.
BODY CONDITION OF BREEDING VERMILION FLYCATCHERS (PYROCEPHALUS RUBINUS) VARIES BETWEEN AREAS WITH AND WITHOUT CATTLE RANCHING IN CENTRAL ARGENTINA
Authors: Rebollo María Emilia , Sarasola José Hernán , Jahn Alex Edward , Cereghetti Joaquín
Published: February 2023

The body condition of birds may be conditioned by intrinsic (e.g., sex, age, migratory and breeding status) and extrinsic factors, such as anthropic activities (e.g., livestock raising). We describe the biometry and body condition of Vermilion Flycatchers (VEFL) according to sex and age and evaluate which factors best predict their body condition during the breeding season in the Espinal of central Argentina. The study area included “Parque Luro” Provincial Reserve and two nearby private ranches with livestock. We captured and banded VEFL using mist nets between October to February, from 2015 to 2019. We calculated the scaled mass indexes, which relates body mass to biometric measures (culmen, tarsus, and tail length, and wing chord) to choose the best indicator of body condition. As explanatory variables, we used the breeding condition of females in one model, breeding condition of males in another model, and in a final model we used date, year and site, and included all individuals. We banded 93 VEFL that did not vary according to age-dependent body size or reproductive condition. Nevertheless, females weighed more, had higher fat levels and shorter wings than males. The body condition was only explained by breeding site, being smaller in one ranch than the other ranch and the reserve. We highlight the importance of reserves and the need for further research to understand the ecological constraints that South American birds face, to promote their conservation.
OCUPACIÓN DE LA COMUNIDAD DE BÚHOS EN UN BOSQUE TEMPLADO EN MEXICO
Authors: Fernández-Martínez Eladio C. , Enríquez Paula L.
Published: February 2023

Los bosques templados son de los ecosistemas más amenazados. Las alteraciones en los bosques modifican la estructura de la vegetación y provoca cambios en la distribución y abundancia de las especies. Los búhos son elementos importantes en los bosques y estudiar su ocupación permitirá entender su abundancia y las variables ambientales asociadas. Para estimar los índices de ocupación de cinco especies de búhos en el área, se recorrieron tres transectos lineales en 2012 y 2015 en el Área Natural Protegida Piedra Canteada, Tlaxcala México.  Asimismo se establecieron parcelas para medir variables estructurales de la vegetación y fisiográficas. Tres especies presentaron mayores índices de ocupación en ambos años: Aegolius acadicus;  Psiloscops flammeolus  y Bubo virginianus. Mientras que Tyto alba y Megascops kennicottii presentaron menores índices de ocupación. Hubo variables asociadas a los índices de ocupación de B. virginianus como el número de troncos caídos y a la fuente de agua más cercana. Las variables de los modelos de ocupación se asociaron con el disturbio de la vegetación, las distancias a las fuentes de agua y a asentamientos humanos. Estos resultados proveen la primera aproximación a los patrones de ocupación y asociación a las variables de la vegetación de las especies de búhos en bosques templados en el noroeste de Tlaxcala, México.
INSIGHTS INTO THE HABITS OF THE ELUSIVE NOCTURNAL CURASSOW (NOTHOCRAX URUMUTUM)
Authors: Link Andrés , Alvarez-Solas Sara , Blake John , Campos Felipe , Espinosa Santiago , Medrano-Vizcaino Pablo , Mosquera Diego , Payan Esteban , Peñuela María Cristina , Salvador Julia , Valenzuela Leonor
Published: February 2023

Nocturnal curassows (Nothocrax urumutum) are one of the most enigmatic birds from South American rainforests. Their elusive habits and their nocturnal vocal behavior have led to the generalized assumption that they differ from other curassows in their presumable nocturnal habits. Here, we compiled camera trap data from long term projects in the Amazon rainforest and the Andes Cordillera piedmont to describe the temporal activity of Nocturnal Curassows. Based on an overall sampling effort of 68838 camera nights we obtained 274 independent records of their activity. The results of this study evidence that Nothocrax has diurnal habits and resembles in activity patterns to all other cracids more than previously expected. This study highlights the use of novel technologies and collaborative research towards the understanding of the natural history, ecology and behavior of animals with cryptic behaviors such as the Nocturnal Curassows.
NOTES ON THE NESTLING BIOLOGY OF THE GOLDEN-WINGED MANAKIN (MASIUS CHRYSOPTERUS)
Authors: Salazar Jhan Carlos , Londoño Gustavo A.
Published: February 2023

A complete nesting information is available for 7.8% of the Manakin species; however, most of this information is fragmented and available mainly for lowland species. Hence, nesting information for highland species is scattered. Our study presents nesting information on a cloud forest Manakin species, the Golden-winged Manakin (Masius chrysopterus), which is distributed from western Colombia to northern Peru between 1000 and 2300m. We monitored 10 nests, from February through July in 2014 and 2015 at Parque Nacional Natural Tatamá, Colombia. We describe the nest, egg, and nestling, and provide information on incubation behavior and nestling feeding. The cup nest was similar to those found in most manakins. Eggs were creamy with brown spots concentrated at the base and measured 8.70± 0.89mm x 13.30 ± 0.39mm. The nestling growth rate (K) was 0.38. The incubation and nestling period were 22 and 16 days, respectively. The female conducted 70 off-bout trips day-1 that lasted on average 8.24 ± 5.44min, with 78% nest attentiveness. This study provides the most complete nesting data for a cloud forest manakin. Overall, M. chrysopterus incubation and nestling period are longer when compared to other manakin species. But the nest structure and composition, and eggs coloration concurred with other species.
UN RARO CASO DE ENCANECIMIENTO PROGRESIVO CON EXPRESIÓN DE XANTOCROISMO EN EL CACIQUE MEXICANO (CASSICULUS MELANICTERUS)
Authors: Ruiz Erick Ruben Rodriguez
Published: February 2023

Resumen. Con el objeto de reportar un raro caso de encanecimiento progresivo con expresión de xantocroísmo en el cacique mexicano (Caciculus melanicterus) y su desarrollo en el tiempo, se tomaron fotografías anualmente entre 2018 y 2021 a un individuo de plumaje aberrante. En 2018 el ave mostraba simplemente una macha amarilla atípica en la cabeza que ocupaba un estimado del 5% de la superficie de su plumaje. Con el tiempo el color negro de sus plumas fue  progresivamente sustituido por amarillo con ligera despigmentación en la cara y las alas. De manera que en 2019, la aberración se había extendido hasta abarcar aproximadamente el 50% de su plumaje y  para 2020-2021 alcanzó el 75%. El presente reporte se trata del primer caso de este tipo conocido en el Neotrópico.Palabras clave: Aberración del plumaje, carotenismo, flavismo, pluma, xantocroismo.
ALTA DIVERSIDAD DE AVES EN HUMEDALES COSTEROS PEQUEÑOS: EL CASO DE UN HOTSPOT DEL NEOTRÓPICO
Authors: Paredes Mejia Monica Antoinette , Aponte Héctor , Apeño Antony A.
Published: February 2023

Wetlands in the developing world are disappearing due to bad management and urban growth, threatening the birdlife that inhabits them. The Huacho-Hualmay-Carquin wetland is located on Peru’s central coast, it has recently begun to be researched. Yet, it’s already losing ground to urbanization and public beachside development. 12 bird censuses (with two simultaneous transects: “supralittoral” and “urban”) were conducted; bird diversity and its correlation with 2 thermal-related oceanic parameters of the South Pacific (SST and ICEN) were calculated. Seventy-eight bird species were found, with abundances as high as 19,000 individuals. Species richness and abundance were higher in the supralittoral transect, while diversity was higher in the urban transect. We found correlations between the alpha diversity and abundance with both the SST and ICEN. This ecosystem exhibits high bird diversity and demonstrates the importance of studying small wetlands, as means of developing better management and conservation strategies in the region.
DIETA DE LA BANDURRIA ANDINA (Theristicus branickii) A PARTIR DEL ANALISIS POST-MORTEM DE DOS PICHONES, PARQUE NACIONAL ANTISANA, ECUADOR
Authors: Luzuriaga-Neira Nivia , Reyes Nathaly , Mena Karla , Olmedo Itziar , Cadena Hector
Published: February 2023

Existe poca información sobre la dieta de la Bandurria Andina (Theristicus branickii). Se conoce que algunas especies del género Theristicus se alimentan principalmente de invertebrados del suelo. Analizamos dos carcasas de pichones de 12 y 18 días de edad que se encontraban bajo monitoreo; las causas de muerte se atribuyen a caída del ave desde el nido y a hipotermia, respectivamente. Extrajimos los contenidos estomacales e identificamos al nivel más específico posible. En total contabilizamos 128 elementos biológicos en las dos carcasas; 51 y 77 respectivamente. La dieta estuvo dominada por larvas de Noctuidae, Lepidóptera (51%), y en menores proporciones adultos (6%) y larvas (10%) de Lebia paranicola, Coleoptera; ciempiés, Lithobiidae (1%); gasterópodos, Hibroniidae (4%); huevos de Lombricidae (10%); y de restos óseos parcialmente digeridos de roedor Akodon sp. Este estudio evidencia que la dieta de la Bandurria Andina está compuesta por presas características del páramo.
BLACK-CHEEKED GNATEATER (CONOPOPHAGA MELANOPS) (AVES: CONOPOPHAGIDAE): A PREDATOR OF SMALL FROGS AND LIZARDS IN THE ATLANTIC FOREST
Authors: Schunck Fabio , Melo Marcos Antônio , Malagoli Leo Ramos
Published: February 2023

The Conopophagidae family has only one report of predation of small vertebrates, being an anuran observed for the genus Conopophaga. Here, we present a record of predation on a small anuran amphibian by Conopophaga melanops. The record was made in 2008 in a Southeast Brazil. A recently dead individual of Fritziana mitus, with several lesions on its body, was observed next to an adult female of C. melanops captured in a mist net. We found only two records of predation of small vertebrates by C. melanops, being an anuran and a lizard. The three available records occurred during the reproductive period of C. melanops, indicating that the prey may serve as a resource to feed the young. This type of behavior, as well as the predator-prey relationship, should be better investigated in the field, especially in the Atlantic Forest, region with a high bird and frog diversity.
Factors Influencing Picky Eating Habits and Their Relationship to the Nutritional Status of Pre-School Aged Children at Bimba Aiueo
Authors: Mahmudah Rifa'atul , Elya Rohimi Upit
Published: February 2023

Picky eating is a problem of eating habits that mainly occurs in preschool-aged children. This condition is characterized by behavior that limits food choices, shows solid preferences for food, does not want to try new foods, and rejects certain food groups. The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence picky eating habits and the relationship between picky eating habits and the nutritional status of the subjects. This study used a cross-sectional model carried out in several AIUEO biMBA tutoring units. The research subjects were 62, representing 32 picky eater subjects and 30 non-picky eater subjects. The analysis showed that most of the subjects in both groups had normal nutritional status (0.04 ± 1.27 kg/m2), and the level of nutritional adequacy was mainly in the normal category. The results of the Spearman rank correlation test showed no significant relationship between picky eating habits and nutritional status BMI/U z-score (p>0.05). Variable mothers' eating habits (p=0.004, r=0.360), history of exclusive breastfeeding (p=0.018, r=0.300) and history of complementary feeding (p=0.03, r=0.276) showed a positive correlation with children's eating habits. Regression analysis showed that the mother's eating habits, history of exclusive breastfeeding and history of MP-ASI simultaneously/together significantly affected children's eating habits by 18.8% (p = 0.007, r2 = 0.188). Mothers' eating habits (SE value = 9.8%) have a more dominant influence on children's eating habits compared to the history of exclusive breastfeeding (SE value = 6.42%) and MP-ASI history (SE value = 2.51%).
Corporate Governance and Performance of Banking Sector in Pakistan
Authors: Rehman Ramiz , Mangla Inayat
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the impact of corporate governance variables on the financial performance of banking sector in Pakistan. For this purpose, the data of financial performance and corporate governance variables of thirty banks are used for the period of 2001-2009.The panel regression analysis is applied to determine this effect, firstly for the whole banking sector, and secondly for different types of banks. These types are categorized on the basis of their ownership and banking practices. The results show that there is a significant impact of corporate governance variables on the performance of overall banking sector in Pakistan. But there is no significant impact of corporate governance practices on the performance of foreign banks
Volatility Transmission of Gold around the World
Authors: Chiou Ingyu
Published: February 2023

This paper studies how one gold market affects another gold market in a different time zone, using the daily data from the Hong Kong, London, and New York markets over the period 2000-2005. When using the variable of intraday returns in regressions, we find that the Hong Kong market does not affect the London market, which has no impact on the New York market, which, in turn, does not affect the Hong Kong market. This finding is consistent with the theory of market efficiency because the intraday performance of one gold market cannot predict the intraday performance of another gold market that trades subsequently. However, when using the variable of intraday return volatility in regressions, we find that the Hong Kong market positively affects the London market, that the London market positively affects the New York market, and that the New York market positively affects the Hong Kong market. This new evidence contributes to the existing literature in financial market integration by suggesting that there are high degrees of volatility linkages between the Hong Kong, London, and New York gold markets.
Investors’ Ripple Effects in the Restructured Financial Environment
Authors: Chiao Cheng-Huei , Kao Robert , Lin Chiou-Fa
Published: February 2023

After the burst of high-tech bubble in year 2000, many companies have been financially restructured so that they can be in a better position to deal with their debt burdens. They restructured to maintain some growth in earnings despite a decline in sales by booking the realized gains on some appreciated investments, reducing deferred revenue, revising its deferred tax asset allowance, and emphasizing on strong cash flow from operations. In this paper, we analyze the variations of key financial composite ratios to verify the structural change and investigate investors’ reactions to PE ratios in previous periods. We apply the Polynomial Distributed Lag Model to explore the existence of these investors’ financial ripple effects. These effects reflect investors’ behavior with under-reactions, over-reactions, or excessive optimism to this new financial information. The findings prove that there are different investor’s proclivities spreading across those financial ratios on both high-tech and non-high-tech companies.
Reexamining Performance of Socially Responsible Firms
Authors: Zaher Tarek
Published: February 2023

This study reexamines the controversy surrounding “Doing well while doing well” debate within the investment literature. We retest whether investors who are dedicated to socially responsible investing will realize additional returns or will be penalized for their investment philosophy. We control for the size bias and sector concentration bias that were identified in previous studies. Our findings indicate that there is no difference in performance between the socially responsible firms and their conventional counterparts. The Investors who chose to invest in socially responsible firms will not earn additional return nor will be penalized. The findings also suggest that there is no difference in the performance of socially responsible and conventional firms over long periods versus short periods. Our findings also indicate that the constraints that are placed on an investment decision would lower or leave unchanged the maximum utility that an investor may obtain.
Financial Intermediation and Economic Growth: Evidence from East Africa
Authors: Tekle Luel , Chiou Ingyu
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the relationship between financial development and economic growth in 12 East African countries (Burundi, Comoros, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Madagascar, Rwanda, Seychelles, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda) for the period 1981-2007. The dynamic panel generalized method of moments (GMM) estimation is employed to test whether financial sector development has a positive impact in economic growth of East Africa. Theresults show that each of 2 financial development measures (domestic credit provided to the private sector and liquid liability) has a positive impact on economic growth and is statistically significant at the 5% level. These results provide additional evidence to the literature. The findings suggest that governments in East Africa can spur long run and sustainable economic growth by developing their financial sectors. Therefore, policies aimed at improving financial development and intermediation should be promoted.
Transmission Of Interest Rates Volatility: A Case Study Of Upper, Middle And Lower Income Groups Countries
Authors: Singh Tarika , Mehta Seema , Bajaj Aarti
Published: February 2023

With the development of liberalization of capital movements, an increasing attention has been given to international transmission of volatility to different market returns. This article empirically tests the effects of the volatility in the time value of the US t bills and RBI t bills on the developed, developing, and underdeveloped market. By using daily values of twelve equity markets and the interest rates on the 10 years treasury bills from 2000 to 2010, the Gaussian and Student’s-t GARCH models are tested to display the international Transmission effects of the US and Indian interest rates on the world equity markets. The empirical findings vary between the sub-economy groups. The equity markets in the upper, middle, and lower income group do not have strong interestrate effects. The markets are affected by the volatility in the US and RBI interest rates at low levels. On the other hand, impacts of the volatility in the US interest rates on the domestic money markets –i.e. bond spreads- in the emerging economies are stronger with negative direction.
Impact of In-Class Time on the Academic Performance in the Introductory Finance Course
Authors: Schellenger Michael , Huffman Stephen
Published: February 2023

We evaluate the impact of in-class time on the academic performance of business students enrolled in an introductory finance course. Contrary to our expectations, we observe a significant increase in the students’ academic performance when in-class time is reduced (as measured on a pre-test post-test basis). When we partitioned our sample by major, we find an increase in academic performance is significant for students majoring in finance or accounting.We also find evidence that the degree of measured change in academic performance is driven by the student’s academic performance in the pre-core courses (e.g., accounting, economics, math, statistics etc.).
Dividend Stability and Firm Characteristics
Authors: Consler John , Lepak Greg , Havranek Susan
Published: February 2023

Dividend stability is studied on 1,968 dividend paying firms using quarterly data from 2000 through 2005. Three groups are established: Group 1 (traditional) has firms that pay dividends every year which represents a stable dividend payment approach; Group 2 (irrelevance) has firms that stop paying dividends; and Group 3 (residual) pays dividends somewhat randomly (not annually). The residual policy group is the largest of the three groups and also is rewarded by investors with the highest growth rate in market to book value ratio in deciles. After investigating the underlying variables, it appears that larger firms tend to follow a traditional policy of stable dividends while smaller firms are more likely to follow a residual or irrelevance approach.