Abundance of�Phalacrocoraxbrasilianus�(Gmelin, 1789) (Suliformes: Phalacrocoracidae) in Two Congregation Places in San Marcos, Sucre, Colombia

Abstract

Objective: The abundance of Phalacrocoraxbrasilianus (Neotropic cormorant) was determined for the two climatic seasons of the year in the lagoon complex of San Marcos, Sucre, Colombia. Reproductive aspects are also discussed and the patterns of utilization that this species has for the work zone are determined. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The study area was the lagoon complex of San Marcos, Sucre, Colombia. We worked with two populations of P.brasilianus “Neotropic Cormorant” during the two semesters of 2016. The population registers were carried out through the method of constant observation for pre-established periods of time and fixed point of counting. The determination of the use patterns was worked through semi-structured surveys. Analysis of variance and significance test was applied to the population variables. Findings: The human consumption of this bird species begins to be evident in the study area; it is established that it is a resident population that has a significant reproduction during the first semesters of the year. The possible changes in density that can be observed during the two-semester of the year, are associated with the food supply, since the annual period. JanuaryJune is dry and the lagoons lose most of their coverage, which increases the concentration of fish, which is very important for this species. Application: The knowledge of the population variations through the annual period of a species offers valuable data that are important to advance in situ conservation programs, as well as to know the trend of use and the environmental or human stresses to which the species is subject. Keywords: Caribbean, Colombia, Density, Interior wetlands, Neotropical Cormorant, Usage patterns