Deterministic population growth models and conservation translocation as a management strategy for the critically endangered Blue-throated Macaw (Ara glaucogularis): A critique of Maestri et al (original) (raw)

The status and conservation of the Blue-Throated Macaw Ara glaucogularis

Bird Conservation International, 2000

The conservation status of the Blue-throated Macaw Ara glaucogularis, a Bolivian endemic, is assessed using the most recent information available. The known range of the species is patchily distributed within an 8,600 km2 area of lowland savanna–forest habitat in the Beni department, under private ownership for cattle ranching, which is the main form of land use in the region. Population surveys of the Blue-throated Macaw revealed this species to exist in very low numbers. The immediate threat to the species is illegal trapping for the live bird trade. Effects of cattle grazing and savanna burning may modify habitat characteristics, but there is no direct evidence suggesting that these factors negatively influence the ecological requirements of Ara glaucogularis. The species is highly associated with the Attalea phalerata palm, which it uses for feeding and nesting. Current conservation efforts include: population and distribution surveys and assessment of habitat requirements; envi...

Spix’s Macaw Cyanopsitta spixii (Wagler, 1832) population viability analysis

Bird Conservation International, 2023

Summary Spix’s Macaw Cyanopsitta spixii is one of the most endangered Neotropical Psittacidae species. Extinct in the wild in the year 2000, in June 2022 the first cohort of C. spixii was reintroduced to its original habitat. For a successful reintroduction of the species, it is necessary to examine the viability of the population against natural and external threats and the environmental requirements for success. Thus, this paper presents a “Population Viability Analysis” (PVA) for Spix’s Macaw. It used the Vortex and RangeShiftR software, biological and environmental data from a bibliographic survey, and information provided by the field team responsible for the reintroduction of the species, and who work directly with the species in captivity. We found that the minimum viable population (MVP) for reintroduction of the species is 20 individuals. However, considering the impact of disease, drought, hunting, and illegal trafficking, this population can only persist if the release of individuals from captivity occurs annually over the next 20 years combined with the reforestation of natural habitat to support population growth.