Abstract
We compared the avifauna recorded in a recent survey in an urban park (Parque Municipal Henrique Luís Roessler, Parcão) and surroundings, Novo Hamburgo, RS, with past data, to evaluate the possible alterations in species composition over time. Of the 265 species compiled as original elements of that region, 114 were found at Parcão. Among forest species, 37% were considered locally extinct. The most affected guild was the large frugivores, with nine extinct species and one survivor (Trogon surrucura). Birds highly sensitive to disturbance as well as endemic species were the most extinguished. The possible causes for this loss are fragmentation, hunting and environmental changes. The diversity today is threatened, thus conservation measures are necessary in that region. The most important actions are: maintenance of ecological corridors, protection of natural remnant areas and the establishment of protected areas.
Highlights
The advanced knowledge of bird biology compared to other animal groups, together with its own ecological characteristics, grants birds the important quality of excellent bio-indicators (Verner, 1981; Bibby, 1999)
Several studies have shown that tropical forest fragmentation is a serious threat to biodiversity
The region of Sinos River basin is among the most populated areas in the state of Rio Grande do Sul and has a history marked by European colonisation, which occurred from
Summary
The advanced knowledge of bird biology compared to other animal groups, together with its own ecological characteristics, grants birds the important quality of excellent bio-indicators (Verner, 1981; Bibby, 1999). This group has been widely used in studies aiming to evaluate the effects that changes in natural areas have on biodiversity. Biol., 2010, vol 70, no. 4 (suppl.), p. 1137-1148
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