Abundance and Conservation of Diurnal Raptors in Two Municipalities of Manglaralto - Santa Elena: Implications for Sustainable Management

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21142/SS-0601-2025-e125

Keywords:

raptors, diversity, abundance, sustainability, conservation

Abstract

This study, conducted in the Ecuadorian municipalities of Sinchal and Barcelona, adjacent to the Chongón-Colonche mountain range, assessed the distribution, abundance and diversity of raptors, with the aim of generating key information for conservation efforts. Transect and focal point methods were applied during a three-month monitoring period in 2024. Three 1-km transects were established, each subdivided into eight segments. Observation points were spaced 125 meters apart, covering a total area of approximately 2.36 km². Species observation and identification were conducted using Bushnell binoculars, Canon EOS Rebel T3i and Nikon D700 cameras and taxonomic field guides, enabling the identification of 13 species belonging to three families of the orders Cathartiformes, Accipitriformes and Falconiformes. A total of 194 individuals were recorded, with Coragyps atratus accounting for the highest relative abundance, at 53.6%, while Buteo brachyurus, Buteo meridionalis, Buteo urubitinga and Geranoaetus swainsonii accounted for only 0.52%. The Margalef, Shannon and Pielou indices used indicated moderate diversity, with C. atratus being the dominant species in both study areas. The relationship between vegetation structure and resource availability, particularly the presence of dry and humid forests, highlights the critical role of forest cover in the distribution of these birds. From a management and conservation perspective, the results emphasize the need for implementation of long-term strategies and monitoring efforts, in order to safeguard the habitats of these species. The use of tagging techniques and population dynamics tracking will be required to ensure the integrity of both the raptor communities and their ecosystems.

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Published

2025-06-25