Preliminary Diagnosis of Birdlife Component on Parque Turístico Nueva Loja, Sucumbíos-Ecuador.

Abstract:

Ecuador is the fourth country with the most incredible bird biodiversity worldwide, with an estimated 50% located in the Amazon region. Therefore, expanding research and conservation efforts is important. In this context, the Parque Turístico Nueva Loja is a suitable place for developing this zoological group, so we propose to determine the richness and relative abundance of birds in different habitats and identify their trophic guilds. The Parque Turístico Nueva Loja covers 30 hectares, where eight counting points were established. Data collection was carried out during December 2022, starting at 05:30, when all birds were recorded by observation and song for 30 minutes. For statistical analysis, calculations were made for richness, relative abundance, and alpha and beta diversity. Range-abundance and species accumulation curves were also projected, and corresponding trophic guilds were recorded. A total of 407 individuals belonging to 52 species from 26 families were recorded, with the most abundant species being Ara Severus (14.74%). The family with the highest abundance was Psittacidae, while the family with the highest richness was Tyrannidae. The most well-represented trophic guild was frugivorous (28.85%). In terms of biodiversity, an Inverse Simpson Index of 16.7 was obtained, and regarding the Jaccard’s Index, the highest similarity was between forest and anthropic zones with a value of 0.5. In conclusion, due to Parque Turístico Nueva Loja location, anthropogenic activities in its surroundings influence the abundance and richness of birds, resulting in low biodiversity and high dominance of generalist and opportunistic species. However, the park has suitable habitats and resources for birds, making it an important site for biodiversity conservation.