Investigaciones de la avifauna marina en aguas continentales ecuatorianas con énfasis en su distribución, diversidad, abundancia y estado de conservación

Abstract

This investigation is part of a seismic prospection study within the project entitled Geophysics Research of the Ecuadorian Continental Shelf. The objectives of this study were to determine diversity, abundance and to learn the population and conservation status of seabirds in ecuadorian waters, as well as to identify sensitive areas and priority sites for conservation. During the field study we recorded a total of 27 speciesbelonging to 10 families. The family with the highest number of species was Laridae (gulls and terns) with eight species. The composition of species diversity included two different groups. A larger group of 17 migratory species and a group of eight resident species that reproduce in Ecuador. This study also accounts for important bird species for conservation such as Phoebastria irrorata, Puffinus creatopus, P. grisesus, Procellaria parkinsoni and confirms the presence of a previously not recognized species in Ecuador, Sula leucogaster. This investigation also reviews the conservation status of seabirds and their breeding colonies with emphasis on isla de La Plata and Sta. Clara, both of them considered Important Bird Areas (IBAs) and wildlife refuges for seabirds in mainland Ecuador.