bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Surveys of the Satyr Tragopan Tragopan satyra in the Singhalila National Park, Darjeeling, India using spring call counts
Authors: Khaling Sarala , Kaul Rahul , Saha Goutam Kumar 
Published: May 2010

SummaryCall counts of Satyr Tragopan Tragopan satyra were conducted in the Singhalila National Park, Darjeeling, India, for three years (1995–1997). Twenty-eight groups of calling birds were recorded in 1995, 19 in 1996 and 24 in 1997 with mean density estimates (groups/km2) of 6.19/km2, 4.52/km2 and 5.46/km2 respectively. During the three years, the number of calling groups varied only on one trail. Birds called early (04h45–05h00) and the calling frequency varied from 33% to 88%. Calling peaked in April and there were significant differences in the number of groups calling in April and May in 1995 and 1996. Adverse weather conditions and wind affected calling and the audibility of calls. During spring, the Satyr Tragopan was found to be associated with both open and closed habitats. The main possible threats to this species were grazing and tree lopping. Despite some shortcomings this survey method appears to be most suitable for monitoring Satyr Tragopan.
Distribution and conservation status of Bornean Peacock-pheasantPolyplectron schleiermacheriin Central Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: O'Brien Timothy G. , Winarni Nurul Laksmi , Saanin Frida Mindasari , Kinnaird Margaret F. , Jepson Paul 
Published: May 2010

SummaryWe distributed questionnaires and conducted interviews between July and November 1996 to develop a better understanding of the status and distribution of Bornean Peacock-pheasantPolyplectron schleiermacheriin Central Kalimantan, Indonesia. We found that many people were familiar with the species, that it is apparently widely distributed but rare in lowland forest, and that populations may be declining. We received reports of recent sightings of the pheasant at 23 locations in 9 survey areas. The primary threats to Bornean Peacock-pheasants are habitat loss within logging concessions and hunting. Recommendations for future conservation action include increasing the representation of lowland rainforest in Kalimantan's protected area system, specifically the proposed extension of Bukit Raya National Park, and control of hunting within logging concessions.
Genetic endangerment of wild Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus?
Authors: Peterson A. Townsend , Brisbin I. Lehr 
Published: May 2010

SummaryDomestic chickens were derived from the wild Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus. A survey of 745 museum specimens of Red Junglefowl suggests that most wild populations have been contaminated genetically by introgression of genes from domestic or feral chickens. A male eclipse plumage, which appears to be an indicator of pure wild genotypes, was found in populations in the western and central portions of the species's range, but not in the easternmost populations. Eclipse plumages probably disappeared from extreme south-eastern Asia and the Philippines prior to the advent of intensive scientific collecting (about 1860) and have not been observed in Malaysia and neighbouring countries since the 1920S. Populations exhibiting eclipse plumages were found in north-eastern India as late as the 1960s, but the dense human populations there make their continuing genetic integrity uncertain. These data suggest that surveys of wild and captive populations should be undertaken to assess the genetic integrity of this species. A re-evaluation of the conservation status of Red Junglefowl might then follow.
Genetic diversity, phylogenetic relationships and conservation of Edwards's Pheasant Lophura edwardsi
Authors: Hennache Alain , Randi Ettore , Lucchini Vittorio 
Published: May 2010

SummaryAn historical study shows that the present day ex situ population of Edwards's Pheasant Lophura edwardsi, now numbering over 1,000 living specimens, originated in the 1920s from at least six different sources and c. 30 potential founders, including more males than females. Partial sequences, 820 nucleotides long, of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control-region were obtained in representatives of about half of 21 captive-reared bloodlines, identified from data in the revised International Studbook. All captive-reared birds had identical sequences. Sequences of mtDNA obtained from museum skins and samples of birds collected in the wild were slightly different from that representing the captivereared birds. The lack of mtDNA variability in the captive stock is probably due to the small number of founding females and genetic drift during c. 30 generations of captive breeding. Estimation of true extent of mtDNA sequence variability in historical and living wild Edwards's Pheasants awaits the procurement and analysis of more specimens. At least one bloodline of captive Edwards's Pheasant is polluted with exogenous genes resulting from past hybridization with Swinhoe's Pheasant L. sivinhoii. Edwards's Pheasant is more closely related to Vietnamese Pheasant L. hatinhensis and Imperial Pheasant L. imperialis than to several other taxa regarded as full species in the genus Lophura. However it is not yet possible to determine the extent of their evolutionary divergence and of their proper taxonomic rank. The initial results of this genetic research suggest that there should be efforts to (1) expand field sampling and genetic analyses of wild populations of Lophura species, (2) purge the captive stock of Edwards' Pheasant of all hybrids, (3) apply microsatellite analyses to estimate the level of genetic diversity in nuclear DNA.
Population size of Cuban ParrotsAmazona leucocephalaand Sandhill CranesGrus canadensisand community involvement in their conservation in northern Isla de la Juventud, Cuba
Authors: Aguilera Xiomara Gálvez , Alvarez Vicente Berovides , Wiley James W. , Rosales José Rivera 
Published: May 2010

SummaryThe Cuban Sandhill CraneGrus canadensis nesiotesand Cuban ParrotAmazona leucocephala palmarumare considered endangered species in Cuba and the Isla de la Juventud (formerly Isla de Pinos). Coincident with a public education campaign, a population survey for these species was conducted in the northern part of the Isla de la Juventud on 17 December 1995, from o6hoo to 10hoo. Residents from throughout the island participated, manning 98 stations, with 1–4 observers per station. Parrots were observed at 60 (61.2%) of the stations with a total of 1320, maximum (without correction for duplicate observations), and 1100, minimum (corrected), individuals counted. Sandhill cranes were sighted at 38 (38.8%) of the stations, with a total of 115 individuals. Cranes and parrots co-occurred at 20 (20.4%) of the stations.
Differential human impact on the survival of genetically distinct avian lineages
Authors: Hughes Austin L. 
Published: May 2010

SummaryAt the present time the earth is facing an anthropogenic (human-caused) mass extinction event that may eventually rival previous mass extinction events caused by drastic changes i n the physical environment; however, the impact of this event on the earth's biotic diversity remains difficult to predict. Patterns of extinction and endangerment in birds, one of the best known taxonomically among major groups of organisms, showed that the distribution of human impact has been non-uniform relative to phylogenetic relationships. Fifteen major avian lineages differed over 35-fold with respect to the frequency of historical extinction and over threefold with respect to frequency of current threat; and overall rates of both extinction and threat were significantly higher in non-passerine orders than in passerines. Moreover, among both passerines and non-passerines, the rate of historic extinction has been significantly higher for species in monotypic genera than for other species; and in passerines, the rate of current threat is significantly higher for species in monotypic genera than for other species. Thus, the anthropogenic extinction and threat to avian species has specifically targeted species that are phylogenetically and thus, presumably genetically, unique.
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

SummaryWe 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

SummaryInvasions 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

SummarySome 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

SummaryThe 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

SummaryThe 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

SummaryFour 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

SummaryThe 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

SummaryBetween 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.
A study of fall migration of Nearctic-breeding landbirds in central Costa Rica
Authors: Stiles F. Gary 
Published: May 2010

SummaryIn 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

SummaryAuthors' 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

SummaryCompetition 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

SummaryWe 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.