Abstract
Sicalis luteola occurs from Mexico to South America. In the Northeastern Brazilian region its biology, population dynamics and threats are poorly known. The subspecies S. luteola luteiventris apparently migrates northward during austral winter. The specific aims of this work were: 1) to verify the seasonality of the species; 2) to analyze information on molting and breeding, and 3) to check the main threats to this bird in northeastern Brazil. The highest number of records were in March, April, and May (51.12%) and the lowest in November and December (3%).We found a greater population peak in April in the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Ceará, and in April and May in Pernambuco. In Paraíba there was not an apparent seasonal variation in frequency. We captured 66 individuals, all adults, being 38 males and 28 females. 30% of the captured birds showed contour feathers molt, mainly on the head. A total of 23 individuals had brood patch, all being females. Six nests were found and four contained two to three eggs. We found that the main threat is the illegal trade. Our findings may support conservation plans for this bird in the region.
Highlights
The Grassland Yellow-Finch (Sicalis luteola) inhabits part of Mexico, Central America and a large part of South America (Rising, 2011)
The subspecies S. luteola luteiventris occurs in the southern part of South America and apparently migrate northward during austral winter (Rising, 2011)
The data from this study suggest that populations of S. luteola in northern and eastern parts of northeastern Brazil oscillate between months, and the peak of the movement occurs in March, April, and May, and after September the records become really scarce
Summary
The Grassland Yellow-Finch (Sicalis luteola) inhabits part of Mexico, Central America and a large part of South America (Rising, 2011) It occurs in tall grassland, fields and edges of marshes (Ridgely and Tudor, 2009; Rising, 2011). The subspecies S. luteola luteiventris occurs in the southern part of South America and apparently migrate northward during austral winter (Rising, 2011) In this time of the year they reach the central, north, midwest.
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