Increased presence of the invasive, exotic Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) in the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, Mexico, after hurricane disturbance

Abstract

Invasive species are a main cause of biodiversity loss, making it important to register their incursion into conserved, protected areas. We evaluated presence of the exotic Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) in and around the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve, Jalisco, after hurricane disturbance. During March to May 2017 and 2018, we carried out 1 km transect surveys at three sites: Chamela Biological Station, Careyes town, and Cuixmala ranch, and conducted observations of the Eurasian Collared-Dove when detected. We also collated records from the eBird database to compare the number of Eurasian Collared-Doves reported before (2010-2015) and after (2016-2020) major hurricane disturbance. We recorded a total of 27 doves over 18 surveys, with the majority of records at the Chamela Biological Station within the reserve. Most sightings were of one dove, but we recorded a group of 4 doves at Chamela in May 2018. Doves spent significantly more time perched around buildings at Chamela in 2018 compared to 2017, and made occasional flights into trees at the dry forest border. The eBird data showed a significant increase in records of the Eurasian Collared-Dove outside the reserve after hurricane disturbance. Our results showed increased presence of the Eurasian Collared-Dove at sites within the biosphere reserve following major hurricane disturbance, possibly due to forest damage creating open-habitat and niche opportunities within the dry forest mosaic. We recommend continued monitoring to restrict establishment of this invasive species in forested areas of the reserve, and evaluate potential impacts on native species.