Get 20M+ Full-Text Papers For Less Than $1.50/day. Start a 14-Day Trial for You or Your Team.

Learn More →

Bird assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra Valley in central Argentina: an important area for conservation of Chacoan and mountain birds

Bird assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra Valley in central Argentina: an... Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 123–140. ARTICLE June 2018 Bird assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra Valley in central Argentina: an important area for conservation of Chacoan and mountain birds 1,8 2 3 4 David Lautaro Vergara-Tabares , Alejandro Alberto Schaaf , Ernesto Gustavo Verga , Agustín Ignacio Quaglia , 5 6 7 1 1 Tobías Nicolás Rojas , Martín Toledo , Emiliano García , Susana Inés Peluc & Agustín Díaz Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal (IDEA-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina. Instituto de Ecorregiones Andinas (INECOA-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, Jujuy, Argentina. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal (UNC-CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina. Laboratorio de Arbovirus, Instituto de Virología “Dr. J. M. Vanella”, Facultad de Ciencias. Médicas (FCM-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina. Instituto de Ecología Regional, (IER-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Tucumán e Instituto Miguel Lillo, Tucumán, Argentina. Arenales 990, Torre Verde 7B- Córdoba, Argentina. Rincón 28, Villa Giardino, Córdoba, Argentina. Corresponding author: davidlautarov@gmail.com Received on 22 June 2017. Accepted on 29 March 2018. ABSTRACT: Between 1970 and 1980, many ornithological prospections were made in central Argentina. With this work we intend to fill some of the existing gaps regar ding such knowledge. We conducted bird surveys in the central-western region of Córdoba province. We identified 240 bird species (63% of province's avifauna) belonging to 48 families: 10 of which are considered under some threat category, 37 are migrants, and two are endemic to the region. Throughout a qualitative analysis of or dination, we identified t hree clusters of environments that share similar bird composition. Among those, the most dissimilar group was composed of aquatic environments, whereas the two other groups included wooded and anthropized environments and high altitude environments, respectively. The high bird richness recorded in a relatively small region, encompassing a variety of environments, place upon this area a high bird conservation value. The inclusion of this area in the system of “Important Bir d Areas” (IBAs) may prompt protection actions. KEY-WORDS: altitudinal gradient, bird diversity, endemic birds, environmental heterogeneity, IBAs, threatened birds. INTRODUCTION Giraudo et al. 2006). Historically, the high bird abundance and the Located in central Argentina, Córdoba province hosts a presence of endemic and threatened species has conferred large and diverse number of avian species. Approximately the province high conservation value. Córdoba avifauna 376 native bird species within 51 families have been includes eight species endemic to Argentina and nine recorded (Stempelmann & Schulz 1890, Frenzel 1891, species globally endangered or threatened (López-Lanús et al. 2008). This has sustained t he designation of nine Nores & Yzurieta 1975, Nores & Yzurieta 1979, Nores et al. 1980, Nores et al. 1983, Narosky & Yzurieta Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Córdoba province (Di 1989, Nores et al. 1996). These species are distributed Giacomo 2005). However, only fifty per cent of those in Córdoba throughout a large variety of habitats, such IBAs have effective protection. Furthermore, other as grassy highlands, xerophytic woodlands, wetlands and regions with potential for avian conservation remain out of consideration due to the lack of information marshes. This is the result of the convergence of several ecological regions: the Great Chaco Ecoregion, the regarding avian species presence and distribution. Some Pampas Ecoregion, and the Espinal Ecoregion (Luti et al. of these regions are still relatively unaffected by anthropic 1979, Zak & Cabido 2002, Nori et al. 2011). Despite disturbance, as is the case for western Sierras Grandes and the biodiversity found throughout this province, existing Traslasierra Valley. Sierras Grandes and the adjacent Sierras of ornithological studies show a clear bias towards a few major areas: Mar Chiquita Lake in the northeast, and Comechingones (Sierras Grandes-Comechingones the grasslands on the top of Sierras Grandes in central hereafter) are the highest mountains within Córdoba Córdoba (e.g. Nores & Yzurieta 1983, Nores 1995, province (maximum height 2780 m a.s.l.). The western Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. face presents short and steep slopes, where numerous METHODS streams run down, some of which shape the basin of Río de los Sauces and Allende Lake, commonly under Study area the denomination “Traslasierra Valley” (Carignano et al. 2014, Fig. 1). Río de los Sauces alluvial valley has a plant Surveys were conducted in an area of Sierras Grandes community typical of Chaco lowland Forest, yet the delimited in the north by the rivers Río Chico de Nono mountain slopes also comprise a variety of contrasting and Río de los Sauces and the coast of Allende Lake. In vegetation units (i.e. woodland, shrubland, grassland; see the east, the area was limited by the Sierras Grandes- description in study site section) in accordance with the Comechingones summit. The west and south limits altitudinal gradient (600 to 2700 m a.s.l.). This particular correspond to the meridian 65 03'W and the parallel o 2 topography allows for the development of a highly 32 10'S, respectively, comprising an area of 464.75 km heterogeneous landscape in a relatively small area, and (Fig. 1). the variety of environments hosts a great bird diversity. The physiognomy of plant communities and main For example, the mountain tops include birds with an plant species observed along Traslasierra Valley and Andean origin, whereas lowland areas have Chacoans western Sierras Grandes-Comechingones system from species (Nores & Yzurieta 1983, Nores & Cerana 1990). lowest to the highest altitude (sensu Luti et al. 1979, Fig. These characteristics confer western Sierras Grandes- 2) included: Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley a high value for Lowland Chaco woodland (500–800 m a.s.l.): bird conservation. this area is dominated by several tree species such as The main goals of this study were to (1) study Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco, Prosopis flexuosa, Prosopis avian richness and composition while comparing bird chilensis, Ziziphus mistol and Cercidium australe. Shrubs assemblages among different habitats, and to (2) assess commonly found in the area include Larrea divaricata, the feasibility of including this region into the system Mimozyganthus carinatus, Maytenus spinosa, and Acacia of IBAs. Specifically, we seek to know the avian richness furcatispina (Cabido et al. 1992). and avian community composition at western Sierras Mountain Chaco woodland (800–1350 m a.s.l.): Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley, and to characterized by the dominating presence of Lithraea identify the similarities between bird assemblages among molleoides and, to a lesser extent, Celtis ehrenbergiana, different habitat types. Our study aims to improve the Bouganvillea stipitata, Schinopsis haenkeana, and understanding of the distribution of avian species across Xanthopylum coco. Among the shrubs, dominant species different habitats in this heterogeneous area, which include Flourensia sp. and Condalia buxifolia (Cabido et historically has been understudied by ornithologists, in al. 1998). order to highlight the importance of this area for the Mountain shrubland (1350–1700 m a.s.l.): this conservation of birds in Lowland and Mountain Chaco community is characterized by the lack of trees, the region. dominant shrub being Heterothalamus alienus, and to Figure 1. The map represents the location of our study site in Córdoba province, Argentina. The black shading area in the South American map represents the Great Chaco Forest. The red area in the right square indicates the study area, the north e dge is delimitated by Río Chico de Nono, Río de los Sauces and the northern coast of Allende artificial lake, the east boundary is the maximal coat o o of Sierras Grandes-Comechingones, and the west and south limits correspond to the meridian 65 03'W and the parallel 32 10'S respectively. The delimited area goes from 700 m a.s.l. at the west limit to 2780 m a.s.l. (Champaquí peak, the highest altitude in Córdoba province) at the east limit. The area occupies 464.75 km . Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. a lesser extent Acacia caven, Baccharis sp., and many Data collection Poaceae species. Mountain grassland and Polylepis forest (1700– Three different survey techniques were used to prevent 2800 m a.s.l.): consists of a mosaic of Polylepis australis biases that may be caused by one single technique woodland (mainly in humid and pronounced ravines), (Bibby et al. 2000): (a) detection of species presence tussock grasslands (dominated by Poa stuckertii, Deyeuxia through direct observations with binoculars and aural hieronymi), grazing lawn (dominated by Alchemilla-Carex identification of songs, (b) re cording of species presence lawn), granite outcrops, and eroded areas with exposed by means of capture with mist nets and (c) recording rock surface (Cingolani et al. 2004, 2008). of species presence via interviews with local residents. We assigned surveyed birds to different habitat types Scientific nomenclature is in accor dance with South considering the following environment classification American Classification Committee (SACC–American based on previous descriptions (see Fig. 2): 1 - artificial Ornithologists' Union, Remsen-Jr. et al. 2015). The lake; 2 - river; 3 - stream; 4 - lowland forest; 5 - mountain conservation status of each bird species follows López- forest; 6 - mountain shrubland; 7 - mountain grassland; Lanús et al. (2008). 8 - Polylepis forest; 9 - agricola field; and 10 - urban area. (a) Between January 2011 and December 2015, Figure 2. Different environments included in the study area. (A) Mountain grassland, (B) ravine with a Polylepis forest, (C) mountain shrubland, (D) mountain forest, (E) panoramic view of Traslasierra Valley showing Allende artificial lake, and (F) low land forest. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. we conducted approximately 80 surveys in the study the most represented families were Accipitridae, Ardeidae, area and registered bird species visually and aurally. Each Picidae, and Rallidae with 12, 8, 8, and 8 species survey consisted in walks during time-periods of high respectively. Forty-five species occurred ex clusively within bird activity, from sunrise to midday and from 5:00 to one type of environment (Fig. 3A, Appendix I) and two sunset. In addition, we conducted nocturnal walks using species occurred in seven non-aquatic environments (i.e. playback to detect nocturnal species of Caprimulgidae Turdus chiguanco and Zonotrichia capensis). According to and Strigiformes. Sixty percent of those surveys were López-Lanús et al. (2008), we recorded two “Endangered” conducted in areas corresponding to lowland and species (Gubernatrix cristata only through interviews and mountain Chaco woodland (data from a collateral specific Buteogallus coronatus), two threatened species, and six study, Vergara-Tabares 2017), and areas of Allende “Vulnerable” species (although S. chacoensis only through artificial Lake and Río de los Sauces. interviews, Appendix I). (b) During the autumn-winter 2014, we used Graphical exploration with UPGMA showed three mist nets in three sectors of mountain woodland. groups of habitats based on bird assemblage composition We also used mist nets during 20–29 April, 10– (Table 1, Fig. 4). Two similar groups included: 1) 19 July, and 20–29 September at three sites [Los mountain shrubland, mountain grassland, and Polylepis o o Hornillos (3154'5.10''S; 64 58'28.92''W), San forest (“highland habitats” hereafter), and 2) lowland o o Javier (32 1'42.77''S; 65 0'13.34''W) and Luyaba forest, mountain forest, agricola field, and urban areas o o (32 10'4.44''S; 65 0'29.35''W)]. Nets were mounted in (“lowland habitats” hereafter). The thir d, less similar, sites with intense bird activity and were separated by at group included the following aquatic habitats: artificial least 50 m (i.e. near the streams and/or between patches lake, stream, and river (“aquatic habitats” hereafter). We of arboreal vegetation). We opened four 12-m nets from sunrise to 12:00 h and from 16:00 h to sunset during three successive days (approximately 108 h/net per site). (c) Interviews: some local residents, mostly rural inhabitants, were interviewed and questioned about the bird species they had identified to be in the region. In order to minimize the confusion generated by common bird names (which vary from one region to another), we used photo books of Chacoan birds with their scientific and common names to avoid misleading recognitions. This methodology allowe d us to check in loco whether the species mentioned in the interviews were expected to occur in this region of study, focusing on those species that may have suffered local extinctions in many sites of their ranges (e.g. Gubernatrix cristata, Strix chacoensis and Pheucticus aureoventris). Data analysis We graphically explored the relationship among the different habitats and bir d assemblage composition using UPGMA based on Jaccard's qualitative index of similarity. Qualitative indexes were estimated on a presence-absence matrix of birds registered in the different habitats. We used the Vegan package (Oksanen et al. 2007) in the free user analysis platform R (R Core Team 2012). Figure 3. (A) Number of bird species recorded at each environment of our study site. The light gray section of the bar indicates the number of species that inhabits exclusively RESULTS that particular environment and the dark gray section shows the number of species that are found in more than one A total of 240 species of birds belonging to 48 families environment. (B) Proportion of exclusive (light gray bars) and were recorded (Appendix I). The most represented families shared (dark gray bars) species per group of habitats (number were Tyrannidae, Furnariidae, and Thraupidae with 35, of species in bold numbers). Group of habitats are illustrated 24, and 24 species, respectively. For the non-passerines, in Fig. 4. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Table 1. Similarity matrix of Jaccard index among habitats surveyed in western slopes of Sierras Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley, Argentina. Lowland Mountain Mountain Mountain Polylepis Agricola Urban Artificial Stream River forest forest shrubland grassland forest field area lake Lowland forest 1.00 Mountain forest 0.59 1.00 Mountain shrubland 0.14 0.22 1.00 Mountain grassland 0.05 0.11 0.50 1.00 Polylepis forest 0.01 0.07 0.29 0.29 1.00 Agricola field 0.30 0.21 0.17 0.11 0.04 1.00 Urban area 0.28 0.32 0.24 0.12 0.07 0.47 1.00 Stream 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.04 0.00 1.00 River 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.03 0.01 0.36 1.00 Artificial lake 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.11 0.60 1.00 DISCUSSION Noteworthy species Below we present some information and comments about noteworthy birds species registered in the study area, including species threatened by local activities, species included in threat categories, and endemic species. Some of this information may be relevant for conservation purposes (Di Giacomo 2005). Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus): its range formerly stretched along the total length of the Andes mountains, from Venezuela to Tierra del Fuego, including Sierras Centrales of Córdoba and San Luis (Houston et al. 2016). We frequently observed this nearly-threatened species in our study site (Fig. 5A, B). In a few opportunities, we observed groups of 40–50 individuals feeding on dead horses or cows in areas above 1400 m a.s.l. Although a population decline has been reported for this species in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia, the species appears to be common and the population seems to be stable in Argentina (Houston et al. 2016). However, in Argentina, Figure 4. Hierarchical clustering analysis (UPGMA) for avian assemblages in different habitats in western slopes of Sierras lead poisoning (from ammunition used to hunt game) Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley using Jaccard is potentially a new and increasing threat for the species similarity distances. (Saggese et al. 2009, Lambertucci et al. 2011). Chaco Eagle (Buteogallus coronatus): We recorded two individuals of this eagle during 2011 in the central area of our study region (Fig. 5D) and we found the regrouped species a posteriori to count species exclusively first active nest for Cór doba province (previous to this present in each group of habitats. Aquatic habitats showed study there were only hints but no confirmation that the the highest proportion of exclusive species (but the lowest species would potentially nest in the region, Torres et al. bird richness) and highland habitats was the group with 2006). On 03 February 2014, we found one nest in the lowest proportion of exclusive species. Lowland habitats southern portion of the prospected area with one nestling showed intermediate proportions of exclusive species but in advanced state of development (Fig. 5C). We were the highest richness (129 species, see Fig. 3B). able to record many feeding events by both parents (see A total of 17 species expected to ocurr in the area Capdevielle et al. 2015). The nest consisted of a p latform were not found (Appendix II). built on a Molle de Beber (Lithraea molleoides) located in Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. the mountain forest (at ~950 m a.s.l.). During the two woodland in lowland areas (Maceda 2007). In view of its following years, a pair of B. coronatus produced a new low population density and the number of threats faced nestling in the same nest. Distribution of B. coronatus in by this species, the IUCN Red List conservation status of western and north central Argentina extends south to Río the Chaco Eagle is “Endangered” (BirdLife International Negro, La Pampa, and southern Buenos Aires (Collar et 2016). al. 1992, Gonnnet & Blendinger 1998). This eagle occurs Spot-winged Falconet (Spiziapteryx circumcincta): in open and semi open habitats consisting of mixed this monotypic species is considered endemic to the open grassland, bushland, savannah, marsh and open Chaco region, but is also present in monte shrubs of Río Figure 5. Noteworthy bird species registered at our sturdy area: (A) group of juvenile individuals of Andean Condors; (B) adults Andean Condors, a female on the left and a male on the right; (C) Crowned Eagle fledglings in their nest. First recor ds of a Crowned Eagle nest for Córdoba province; (D) one of the Crowned Eagle pair that produced fledglings; (E) group of Burrowing Parrots that conform a colony in Los Barrancos Wildlife Refuge; (F) male of Black-bodied Woodpecker, the second woodpecker most abundant in mountain forests (Vergara-Tabares, unpub. data); (G) Olrog's Cinclodes, one of two endemic species in central mountains of Cordoba province; (H) male of Black-backed Grosbeak, a species threatened by illegal captures and traffic for cage birds. Photo author: D.L. Vergara-Tabares. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Negro, Argentina (Bierregaard et al. 2016). This species their southern limit ‒ (Vergara-Tabares, unpub. data). is not globally threatened (Bierregaard-Jr. et al. 2016), Madroño & Pearman (1992) suggest the existence of two but López-Lanús et al. (2008) categorized this falconet main populations, one in central Paraguay and the other as “Vulnerable” in Argentina. Its status is virtually one in Córdoba province. However, Yzurieta (1995) has unknown, although it is considered locally common in stated that this woodpecker is rare in Córdoba, contrary to Córdoba, where its habitat has been seriously devastated our observations in the study area. Big woodpeckers, such in the region (Zak & Cabido 2002). We recorded this as D. schulzi, are sensitive to logging and deforestation, as species in lowland forests and, in lower frequencies, in trees are required to build their nests (Lammertink 2014). mountain forests mainly during winter. Therefore, urbanization of pristine mountain forests Burrowing Parrot (Cyanoliseus patagonus): this may present a new threat for these locally abundant species includes 4 subspecies, where C. p. conlara (Nores populations of D. schulzi. Human activity may not only & Yzurieta 1983) occurs in San Luis and Córdoba threaten the survival of D. schulzi populations, but also provinces. Masello et al. (2011) evidenced that this the presence or persistence of other woodpecker species, subspecies represents a hybrid population of C. p. including the southernmost populations of Campephilus patagonus and C. p. andinus, and this is the most genetically leucopogon (Mikusiński 2006), an uncommon species in diverse of the four C. patagonus taxonomic groups. This Córdoba (Yzurieta 1995). population was identified as one of four management Cordoba Cinclodes (Cinclodes comechingonus): units for conservation, being important for their genetic this species breeds only in the isolated Sierras Grandes, characteristics and low population size (1700 individuals; occupying mainly streams in mountain grasslands and Masello et al. 2015). Due to behavioral attributes, we were Polylepis forests (Remsen-Jr. 2016a). We recorded this able to register four noteworthy colonies of Burrowing species in all mountain grasslands and Polylepis forests. Parrots in our study area. The largest colony occurs During autumn-winter, we observed individuals at lower within the limits of Los Barrancos Wildlife Refuge, and altitudes (~900 m a.s.l.). Although this species inhabits a the others (similar in size), occur in burrows at Río de restricted range, it is not considered globally threatened Los Sauces and in ravines at mountain area between 900 because the habitat occupied by this species is relatively and 1000 m a.s.l. However, smaller groups were recorded free from human disturbances other than cattle grazing feeding along all the woody areas in our study region (Cingolani et al. 2004). (except in Polylepis forests, Fig. 5E). Olrog's Cinclodes (Cinclodes olrogi): this species Chaco Owl (Strix chacoensis): the geographic (Fig. 5G) is restricted to the Sierras Grandes, mirroring distribution of the Chaco Owl overlaps approximately the distribution of the Cordoba Cinclodes (Remsen- 90% of the overall Chaco region (Trejo et al. 2012). Jr. 2016b). In winter, we recorded C. olrogi in streams This owl inhabits both dense and semi-open vegetation at lower elevations. This species is less common than C. on hilly and flat areas (Cra craft 1985). Despite its wide comechingonus, and it is more strictly associated with distribution, it is listed as “Vulnerable” in Argentina (e.g. streams. López-Lanús et al. 2008, Trejo et al. 2012). López-Lanús Cinnamon Warbling-finch (Poospiza ornata): this is a et al. (2008) consider S. chacoensis moderately sensitive to species endemic to Argentina (Mazar-Barnett & Pearman anthropogenic habitat changes. Habitat conversion and 2001). In summer, P. ornata occur in a strip that extends fragmentation is probably the main threat to this species from northwestern to southeastern Argentina, moving (Holt et al. 2016).  In Córdoba province, the species to sites located further north and east of its summer has been recorded in Chancani Provincial Park and distribution during the winter (Cueto et al. 2011). We we documented its presence in lowland forest via local have obtained scarce records, only in lowland forests, interviews. Although we conducted night searches of S. during our surveys. Although this species is a common chacoensis using playbacks, we were unable to detect this inhabitant of arid lowland woodlands and shrubs in the species. Monte Desert, and taller shrubs in xeric Andean foothill Black-bodied Woodpecker (Dryocopus schulzi): this ravines, some individuals may arrive at lowland Chaco woodpecker (Fig. 5F) is endemic to the Chaco region, Forest (Traslasierra Valley) in winter (Jaramillo 2016b). and it is considered “Nearly Threatened ” (López-Lanúz et Poopiza ornata was classified as “Least Concern” by al. 2008, Lammertink 2014, Winkler & Christie 2016). IUCN (2011). However, López-Lanús et al. (2008) have Despite its wide distribution across the Chaco region, listed this species as “Vulnerable”, due to its restricted this species is generally rare on a local scale (Madroño distribution, the imposing risk by illegal wildlife trade, & Pearman 1992). However, on a regional scale in the and the lack of accurate information about its population western face of Sierras Grandes-Comechingones, we size and dynamics. commonly recorded this woodpecker in mountain Yellow Cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata): this species forests habitats from Las Chacras to Luyaba ‒ close to historically occurred in north and central Argentina, Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. extreme southeastern Brazil and Uruguay. Currently, this territory) hosts 63.6% of the overall avifauna of Córdoba species is one of the few Neotropical birds that has suffered province. Moreover, not only is it remarkable for the rich a massive and negative effect from the caged bird trade. composition of its avifauna, but also for the presence Consequently, remaining populations of this cardinal of some threatened species, such as B. coronatus at both are small and fragmented (Jaramillo 2016a). During the regional and global scales. Another important observation 1980's, Miatello et al. (1994) registered some individuals is the common presence of the "Near Threatened" D. in several areas inside and adjacent to our study site. schulzi in mountain forests and endemic and restricted- Based on this observation, Nores (1996) considered range species such as C. comechingonus and C. olrogi that this species under recovery in Córdoba province. We highlight the conservation value of the area for birds. performed specific sear ches for this species using playback The great bir d richness found in the area is likely due without success. Contrasting with our negative results, to two main factors. First, the evident altitudinal gradient the interviews with rural inhabitants reveal the presence in the study area (from 600 m a.s.l to 2800 m a.s.l) allows of G. cristata until five years ago. for the existence of several contrasting vegetation units. Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus aureoventris): This heterogeneous landscape is able to host different bird this species (Fig. 5H) is distributed in south Peru, south assemblages, such as grassland birds, woody birds, and and east Bolivia and northwestern Argentina (Brewer & aquatic birds. Secondly, although in Córdoba province de Juana 2014). Although most of the populations are the expansion of the agricultural frontier for the past 30 sedentary, there is some evidence that suggests a pattern years is alarming, especially in the north, east and south of local movements at the geographical end of its range of of the province (Silvetti 2012, Hoyos et al. 2013, Cáceres distribution that includes our study site (Chebez 2009). 2015), this process in the west of the province is less In accordance with this evidence, our observational evident, leaving large forest areas which still host a rich records for this species were obtained only during the diversity of birds. Nevertheless, agricultural and urban breeding season in spring-summer, only in ravines from encroachments are recent threats to this area, particularly 900 to 2000 m a.s.l. (i.e. mountain woodlands and the replacement of natural cover by soybean crops under Polylepis forests). In addition, we found two nests during artificial irrigation (Fe hlenberg et al. 2017). December 2012 near Los Hornillos stream. Although We identified t hree groups of habitats based on López-Lanús et al. (2008) considered P. aureoventris a similarity of bird assemblages. The most dissimilar group non-threatened species in Argentina, at a local scale its corresponded to aquatic habitats (i.e. stream, river, and presence is rare, making this species especially valuable to artificial lake). The other two groups were composed of be trapped and caged as a pet. We also directly observed terrestrial habitats: one included wooded and anthropized extraction of nestlings for bird trade, activity that would habitats at low altitude between 600 and 1300 m a.s.l. reduce the reproductive success of its wild populations (i.e. lowland forest, mountain forest, agricola field, and (López-Lanús et al. 2008). urban area) and the other group included highland Ultramarine Grosbeak (Cyanocompsa brissonii): this habitats above 1300 m a.s.l. (i.e. mountain shrubland, species has a large range of distribution (Brewer 2016) mountain grassland, and Polylepis forest). Aquatic habitats and is considered a quite common species. In Argentina, had the greatest proportion of exclusive species, a pattern it is also considered a quite common and non-threatened explained by the presence of aquatic specialized species species (López-Lanús et al. 2008). Although this species (see Fig. 3B). Though, notably, t his group also presents is not included in any threat category, the loss and the lowest richness. Despite the fact that lowland habitats fragmentation of its habitat and the illegal capture and do not show a high proportion of exclusive species, these trade of individuals as cage birds represent a conservation habitats present the highest richness (see Fig. 3A, B). Given problem. In fact, this species is one of the most common the pattern of habitat aggregation and great number of illegally traded species (Ferreira & Glock 2004, Alves exclusive species in each group, we considered that these et al. 2010, Richard et al. 2010). We observed captive entities might represent discrete units of conservation individuals in numerous houses throughout our study that would be susceptible to different human threats and area. worthy of protection. Each group of habitats and their associated avifauna Bird assemblages and human threats seem to suffer from different threats. For instance, in the lowland habitats, forests are replaced by agricultural In this study, we recorded 240 bird species in several bird habitats (lowland forest) and urban habitats (lowland assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra and mountain forests). Furthermore, highland habitats Valley in central Argentina. Considering that in Córdoba experience anthropogenic fires and over-grazing of province there are 376 cited species (Nores et al. 1996), it grasslands that contribute to the increasing erosion rates is noteworthy that the study area (0.28% of the provincial (Argañaraz et al. 2015). Finally, the capture of some Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Brewer D. 2016. Ultramarine Grosbeak (Cyanocompsa brissonii). In: species for caged bird trade is a widely distributed and del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. & de Juana E. common activity in cities such as Villa Dolores and Mina (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Clavero (pers. obs.). Because of the high avifauna richness Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/62212 (Access on 07 of the region, as well as its numerous threats, it is necessary February 2016). to conduct educational and awareness campaigns focused Cabido M., Acosta A., Carranza M.L. & S. Díaz. 1992. La vegetación del Chaco Árido en el W. de la provincia de Córdoba, Argentina. on the local community to highlight the importance Documents Phytosociologiques 14: 447–456. of the area for forest and bird conservation. The study Cabido M., Funes G., Pucheta E., Vendramini F. & Díaz S. 1998. area represents an important remnant of lowland and A chorological analysis of the mountains from central Argentina. mountain Chaco Forest in a province with only 3% Is all what we call Sierra Chaco really Chaco? Contribution to the study of the flora and vegetation of the Chaco. Candollea 53: of the original forest remaining (Hoyos et al. 2013). 321–331. This area has been identified as one with priority for Cáceres D.M. 2015. Accumulation by dispossession and socio- endemic conservation for the Great Chaco region (Nori environmental conflicts caused by the expansion of agribusiness et al. 2016). The inclusion of the area in the system of in Argentina. Journal of Agrarian Change 15: 116–147. Capdevielle A.E., Encabo M., Albisu J.A. & Harteneck M. 2015. Important Bird Areas (IBAs) is imperative to preserve this Primera descripción de dieta en época reproductiva Águila particular and threatened ecosystem in Córdoba province Coronada Harpyhaliaetus coronatus en la región del Chaco and its rich and unique bird community. We believe this Serrano, p. 70. In: Gonzalez E. (ed.). Libro del resúmenes de la inclusion would contribute to the development of bird XVI Reunión Argentina de Ornitología, v. 1. La Plata: Imprenta del and environment conservation and education programs. Museo de La Plata. Carignano C.A., Kröhling D., Degiovanni S. & Cioccale M.A. 2014. Geomorfología, p. 747–822. In: Martino R.D. & Guereschi A. (eds.). Relatorio del 19º Congreso Geológico Argentino: Geología ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS y Recursos Naturales de la Provincia de Córdoba.. Córdoba: Asociación Geológica Argentina. We thank Miguel Santillan and an anonymous reviewer Chebez J.C. 2009. Otros que se van, v. 1. Buenos Aires: Editorial Albatros. of this manuscript for constructive comments. We also Cingolani A.M., Renison D., Zak M.R. & Cabido M.R. 2004. want to thank Miguel Saggese for his valuable comments Mapping vegetation in a heterogeneous mountain rangeland on this work. We especially thank R. Schmidt for help using landsat data: an alternative method to define and classify with English aspects of the manuscript. Partial funding land-cover units. Remote Sensing of Environment 92: 84–97. Cingolani A.M., Renison D., Tecco P.A., Gurvich D.E. & Cabido was provided by Ruffor d Small Grants from The Ruffor d M. 2008. Predicting cover types in a mountain range with Foundation and by the Association of Field Ornithologists long evolutionary grazing history: a GIS approach. Journal of (AFO; Bergstrom Memorial Award to D.L.V.-T.). S.I.P. Biogeography 35: 538–551. is a researcher at CONICET. D.L.V.-T., A.A.S., E.G.V., Collar N.J., Gonzaga L.P., Krabbe N., Madroño-Nieto A., Naranjo A.Q., T.N.R., and A.D. are CONICET fellowship L.G., Parker T.A. & Wege D.C. 1992. Threatened bir ds of the Americas, v. 2. Cambridge: ICBP. holders. Cracraft J. 1985. Historical biogeography and patterns of differentiation within the South American avifauna: areas of endemism. Ornithological Monographs 36: 49–84. REFERENCES Cueto V.R., Milesi F.A., Sagario M.C., Casenave J.L & Marone L. 2011. Distribución geográfica y patrones de movimiento de la Monterita Canela (Poospiza ornata) y el Yal Carbonero (Phrygilus Alves R.R.N., Nogueira E.E.G., Araujo H.F.P. & Brooks S.E. 2010. carbonarius) en Argentina. Ornitología Neotropical 22: 483–494. Bird-keeping in the Caatinga, NE Brazil. Human Ecology 38: Di Giacomo A.S., 2005. Áreas importantes para la conservación de 147–156. las aves en Argentina. Sitios prioritarios para la conservación de la Argañaraz J., Pizarro G.G., Zak M. & Bellis L.M. 2015. Fire regime, biodiversidad. Temas de Naturaleza y Conservación. Buenos Aires: climate and vegetation in the Sierras de Córdoba, Argentina. Fire Aves Argentinas/Asociación ornitológica del Plata. Ecology 11: 55–73. Fehlenberg V., Baumann M., Gasparri N.I., Piquer-Rodriguez M., Bibby C.J., Burgess N.D., Hill D.A. & Mustoe S.H. 2000. Bird census Gavier-Pizarro G. & Kuemmerle T. 2017. The role of soybean techniques, v. 1. San Diego: Academic Press. production as an underlying driver of deforestation in the South Bierregaard-Jr. R.O., Kirwan G.M. & Marks J.S. 2016. Spot-winged American Chaco. Global Environmental Change 45: 24–34. Falconet (Spiziapteryx circumcincta). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Ferreira C.M. & Glock L. 2004. Diagnóstico preliminar sobre a Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.).  Handbook of the avifauna traficada no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Biociências 12: birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www. 21–30. hbw.com/node/53204 (Access on 08 February 2016). Frenzel D.V.J. 1891. Üebersicht über die in der Provinz Córdoba BirdLife International. 2016. Country profile: Argentina. Available (Argentinien) vorkommenden Vögel. Journal für Ornithologie 39: from http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/countryargentina (Access 113–126. on 09 November 2016) Giraudo L., Kufner M., Torres R., Tamburini D., Briguera V. & Gavier Brewer D. & de Juana E. 2014. Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus G. 2006. Avifauna del bosque chaqueño oriental de la provincia aureoventris). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. de Córdoba, Argentina. Ecología Aplicada 5: 127–136. & de Juana E. (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Holt D.W., Berkley R., Deppe C., Enríquez-Rocha P., Petersen J.L., Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/62183 Rangel-Salazar J.L., Segars K.P., Wood K.L., de Juana E. & Sharpe (Access on 03 August 2015). Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. C.J. 2016. Chaco Owl (Strix chacoensis). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott Nores M. & Yzurieta D. 1975. Sobre aves de la provincia de Córdoba. A., Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.). Handbook of Hornero 11: 312–314. the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www. Nores M. & Yzurieta D. 1979. Aves de costas marinas y de ambientes hbw.com/node/55041 (Access on 08 February 2016). continentales, nuevas para la provincia de Córdoba. Hornero 12: Houston D., Kirwan G.M., Christie D.A. & Sharpe C.J. 2016. 45–52. Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Nores M. & Yzurieta D. 1983. Especiación en las Sierras Pampeanas Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.). Handbook of the de Córdoba y San Luis (Argentina), con descripción de siete nuevas subespecies de aves. Hornero 12: 88–102. birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www. Nores M. 1995. Insular biogeography of birds on mountain-tops in hbw.com/node/52946 (Access on 08 February 2016). north western Argentina. Journal of Biogeography 22: 61–70. Hoyos L.E., Cingolani A.M., Zak M.R., Vaieretti M.V., Gorla D.E. Nores M. 1996. Avifauna de la provincia de Córdoba, p. 255–337. In: & Cabido M.R. 2013. Deforestation and precipitation patterns di Tada I.E. & Bucher E.H. (eds.). Biodiversidad de la provincia de in the arid Chaco Forests of central Argentina. Applied Vegetation Córdoba, v. 1. Río Cuarto: Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto. Science 16: 260–271. Nores M., Yzurieta D. & Miatello R. 1983. Lista y distribución de las Jaramillo A. 2016a. Yellow Cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata). In: del aves de Córdoba. Boletín de la Academia Nacional de Ciencias en Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.). Córdoba 59: 157–196. Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. Nores M., Yzurieta D. & Miatello R.A. 1980. Aves de ambientes http://www.hbw.com/node/62098 (Access on 08 March 2016). acuáticos de Córdoba y centro de Argentina. Córdoba: Secretaría de Jaramillo A. 2016b. Cinnamon Warbling-finch (Poospiza ornata). In: Estado de Agricultura y Ganadería, Dirección de Caza, Pesca, y del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. Actividades Acuáticas. (eds.). Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Nori J., Díaz Gómez J.M. & Leynaud G.C. 2011. Biogeographic Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/62064  (Access on 08 regions of central Argentina based on snake distribution: February 2016). evaluating two different methodological approaches. Journal of Lambertucci S.A., Donázar J.A., Huertas A.D., Jiménez B., Sáez M., Natural History 45: 1005–1020. Sanchez-Zapata J.A. & Hiraldo F. 2011. Widening the problem Nori J., Torres R., Lescano J.N., Cordier J.M., Periago M.E. & Baldo of lead poisoning to a South-American top scavenger: lead D. 2016. Protected areas and spatial conservation priorities concentrations in feathers of wild Andean Condors. Biological for endemic vertebrates of the Gran Chaco, one of the most Conservation 144: 1464–1471. threatened ecoregions of the world. Diversity and Distributions 22: Lammertink M. 2014. Trends in threat status and priorities in 1212–1219. conservation of the woodpeckers of the world. Acta Ornithologica Oksanen J., Blanchet F.G., Kindt R., Legendre P., Minchin P.R., 49: 207–219. O'Hara R.B., Simpson G.L., Solymos P., Stevens M.H.H. & López-Lanús B., Grilli P., Coconier E., Di Giacomo A. & Banchs R. Wagner H. 2007. The vegan package: community ecology package. R 2008. Categorización de las aves de la Argentina según su estado de package version 1.9-25 http://cran.r-project.org/. conservación. Buenos Aires: Informe de Aves Argentinas/AOP y R Core Team. 2012. R: a language and environment for statistical Secretaría de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sustentable. computing. Vienna: R Foundation for Statistical Computing. Luti R., Solís M.A.B., Galera F.M., Ferreira N.M., Berzal M., Nores Remsen-Jr. J.V. 2016a. Cordoba Cinclodes (Cinclodes comechingonus). M., Herrera M.A. & Barrera J.C. 1979. Vegetación, p. 297‒368. In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. & de Juana In: Vázquez J.B., López-Robles A., Sosa D.F. & Sáez M.P. (eds.). E. (eds.). Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Geografía física de la provincia de Córdoba. Buenos Aires: Boldt. Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/56381 (Access on 03 March Maceda J.J. 2007.  Biología y conservación del Águila Coronada 2016). (Harpyhaliaetus coronatus) en Argentina. Hornero 22: 159–171. Remsen-Jr. J.V. 2016b. Olrog's Cinclodes (Cinclodes olrogi). In: Madroño A.N. & Pearman M. 1992. Distribution, status and taxonomy del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. & de Juana E. of the near-threatened Black-bodied Woodpecker  Dryocopus (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx schulzi. Bird Conservation International 2: 253–271. Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/56383 (Access on 03 March Masello J.F., Montano V., Quillfeldt P., Nuhlíčková S., Wikelski M. & 2016). Moodley Y. 2015. The interplay of spatial and climatic landscapes Remsen-Jr. J.V., Areta J.I., Cadena C.D., Claramunt S., Jaramillo A., in the genetic distribution of a South American parrot. Journal of Pacheco J.F., Robbins M.B., Stiles F.G., Stotz D.F. & Zimmer K.J. Biogeography 42: 1077–1090. 2015. A classification of the bir d species of South America. American Masello J.F., Quillfeldt P., Munimanda G.K., Klauke N., Segelbacher Ornithologists' Union. http://www.museum.lsu.edu/~Remsen/ G., Schaefer H.M., Failla M., Cortés M. & Moodley Y. 2011. The SACCBaseline.htm. high Andes, gene flow and a stable hybrid zone shape the genetic Richard E., Zapata D.C. & Contreras M.E.R. 2010. Aportes al structure of a wide-ranging South American parrot. Frontiers in conocimiento de las estructuras de tráfico de fauna silvestre Zoology 8: 16. de Argentina. I - Relevamiento preliminar de la información y Mazar-Barnett J. & Pearman M. 2001. Annotated checklist of the birds estructura interna del mercado. Ambiental 9: 197‒214. of Argentina, v. 1. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. Saggese M.D., Quaglia A., Lambertucci S.A., Bó M.S., Sarasola J.H., Miatello R., Cobos V. & Rosacher C. 1994. Algunas especies de aves Pereyra-Lobos R. & Maceda J.J. 2009. Survey of lead toxicosis nuevas o poco conocidas para la provincial de Córdoba, República in free-ranging raptors from central Argentina, p. 223–231. In: Argentina. Historia Natural 8: 1–5. Watson R.T., Fuller M., Pokras M. & Hunt W.G. (eds.). Ingestion Mikusiński G. 2006. Woodpeckers: distribution, conservation, and of lead from spent ammunition: implications for wildlife and humans. research in a global perspective. Annalles Zoologici Fennici 43: Boise: The Peregrine Fund. 86–95. Silvetti F. 2012. Trayectoria histórica de la territorialidad ganadera Narosky T. & Yzurieta D. 1989. Birds of Argentina and Uruguay: a field campesina en el oeste de la provincia de Córdoba, Argentina. guide, v. 1. Buenos Aires: Vazquez Mazzini. Agricultura, Sociedad y Desarrollo 9: 333–367. Nores M. & Cerana M.M. 1990. Biogeography of forest relics in the Stempelmann H. & Schulz F. 1890. Enumeración de las aves de la mountains of northwestern Argentina. Revista Chilena de Historia provincia de Córdoba. Boletín de la Academia Nacional de Ciencias Natural 63: 37–46. en Córdoba 10: 1–18. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Torres R., Michelutti P., León J., Bruno G. & Cejas W. 2006. Nuevas (Hylatomus schulzii). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J., citas y comentarios sobre rapaces en la región central de Argentina Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the (provincias de Catamarca, Córdoba y Santiago del Estero). world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www.hbw.com/ Nuestras Aves 52: 13–16. node/56288 (Access on 08 February 2016). Trejo A., Bó M.S. & Biondi L. 2012. Búhos de Argentina: estado Yzurieta D. 1995. Manual de reconocimiento y evaluación de las aves de conservación y prioridades de investigación. Ornitología de Córdoba. Córdoba: Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Neotropical 23: 219–226. Recursos Renovables. Vergara-Tabares D.L. 2017. Interacciones entre aves frugívoras nativas Zak M.R. & Cabido M. 2002. Spatial patterns of the Chaco y una planta exótica en el Chaco Serrano: consecuencias para las vegetation of central Argentina: integration of remote sensing and especies involucradas y el proceso de invasión. Ph.D. Thesis. National phytosociology. Applied Vegetation Science 5: 213–226. University of Córdoba. Winkler H. & Christie D.A. 2016. Black-bodied Woodpecker Associate Editor: Gustavo S. Cabanne. APPENDIX I List of bird species recorded at western Sierras Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley. We also included the environment type that each species inhabits and the category of conservation. The number of environment represents: 1 - lowland Chaco woodland; 2 - mountain Chaco woodland; 3 - Romerillo shrubland; 4 - mountain grassland; 5 - Polilepys forest; 6 - agricola field; 7 - urbanized area; 8 - stream; 9 - river; and 10 - artificial lake. Status abbreviations: LC - “Least Concern”; EN - “Endangered”; VU - “Vulnerable”, AM - Threatened. A bundance classification: C - Common; U - Uncommon; R - Rare; and A - Accidental. Seasonal presence: Y - Year-round; S - Summer presence; W - Winter presence; and A - Altitudinal movements. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Tinamidae Nothura darwinii Darwin's Nothura 1, 6 LC C Y Nothoprocta cinerascens Brushland Tinamou 1, 2 LC CY Nothoprocta pentlandii Andean Tinamou 2, 3, 4 LC C Y Nothura maculosa Spotted Nothura 1LC C Y Crypturellus tataupa Tataupa Tinamou 1, 2 LC U Y Eudromia elegans Elegant-crested Tinamou 1 VU R Y Podicipedidae Tachybaptus dominicus Least Grebe 10 LC A Y Podiceps major Great Grebe 10 LC C Y Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed Grebe 9, 10 LC C Y Rollandia rolland White-tufted Grebe 9, 10 LC C Y Phalacrocoracidae Phalacrocorax brasilianus Neotropic Cormorant 9, 10 LC C Y Ardeidae Ardea cocoi White-necked Heron 9, 10 LC U Y Ardea alba Great Egret 9, 10 LC C Y Egretta thula Snowy Egret 8, 9 LC C Y Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret 6, 8, 9 LC C Y Syrigma sibilatrix Whistling Heron 6, 8 LC C Y Butorides striata Striated Heron 8, 9 LC U Y Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night-heron 8, 9 LC C Y Ixobrychus involucris Stripe-backed Bittern 9, 10 LC R Y Threskiornithidae Phimosus infuscatus Bare-faced Ibis 9, 10 LC U Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Plegadis chihi White-faced Ibis 9, 10 LC C Y Theristicus caudatus Buff-necked I bis 4, 9 LC U S Cathartidae Vultur gryphus Andean Condor 4VU C Y Cathartes aura Turkey Vultur 1, 2 LC C Y Coragyps atratus Black Vultur 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Anatidae Anas bahamensis White-cheeked Pintail 10 LC C Y Anas georgica Yellow-billed Pintail 8, 9, 10 LC C Y Anas flavirostris Speckled Teal 8, 9, 10 LC C Y Anas platalea Red Shoveler 10 LC C Y Oxyura vittata Lake Duck 9, 10 LC UY Heteronetta atricapilla Black-headed Duck 10 LC R Y Netta peposaca Rosy-billed Pochard 10 LC C Y Accipitridae Geranoaetus melanoleucus Black-chested Buzzard-eagle 2, 3, 4 LC CY Geranoaetus polyosoma Red-backed Hawk 2, 3, 4 LC C Y Geranoaetus albicaudatus White-tailed Hawk 4LC U Y Elanus leucurus White-tailed Kite 1LC U S Buteo magnirostris Roadside Hawk 1, 2 LC C Y Circus buffoni Long-winged Harrier 3, 4 LC C Y Circus cinereus Cinereous Harrier 1, 4 LC C Y Parabuteo unicinctus Bay-winged Hawk 1LC R Y Rostrhamus sociabilis Snail Kite 9, 10 LC C Y Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned Hawk 2LC C Y Accipiter bicolor Bicolored Hawk 1, 2 LC UY Buteogallus coronatus Crowned Eagle 1, 2 EN R Y Falconidae Caracara plancus Southern Crested-caracara 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Milvago chimango Chimango Caracara 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC CY Spiziapterix circumcinctus Spot-winged Falconet 1, 2 VU C Y Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Falco femolaris Aplomado Falcon 1, 6 LC C Y Falco sparverius American Kestrel 1, 2, 6 LC C Y Rallidae Aramides cajaneus Gray-necked Wood-rail 2, 8 LC C Y Pardirallus sanguinolentus Plumbeous Rail 8LC C Y Gallinula galeata Common Gallinule 8, 9 LC C Y Gallinula melanops Spot-flanked Ga llinule 10 LC U Y Fulica armillata Red-gartered Coot 9, 10 LC C Y Fulica leucoptera White-winged Coot 9, 10 LC C Y Fulica rufifrons Red-fronted Coot 9, 10 LC C Y Fulica ardesiaca 10 LC A Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Aramidae Aramus guarauna Limpkin 9, 10 LC U Y Cariamidae Chugna burmeisteri Black-legged Seriema 1, 2 LC U Y Jacanidae Jacana jacana Wattled Jacana 10 LC C Y Recurvirostridae Himantopus mexicanus American Stilt 9, 10 LC C Y Charadriidae Vanellus chilensis Southern Lapwing 4, 6, 7, 9, 10 LC C Y Charadrius collaris Collared Plover 9 LC U Y Scolopacidae Tringa melanoleuca Greater Yellowlegs 9, 10 LC U Y Tringa flaviceps Lesser Yellowlegs 9, 10 LC U Y Calidris bairdii Baird's Sandpiper 10 LC US Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe 3, 4 LC U Y Columbidae Columba livia Rock Pigeon 6, 7 LC C Y Patagioenas picazuro Picazuro Pigeon 1, 2, 6 LC CY Patagioenas maculosa Spot-winged Pigeon 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Zenaida auriculata Eared Dove 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Columbina picui Picui Ground-dove 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Leptotila verreauxi White-tipped Dove 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Psittacidae Thectocercus acuticaudata Blue-crowned Parakeet 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Cyanoliseus patagonus Burrowing Parrot 1, 2 LC U Y Myiopsitta monachus Monk Parakeet 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Psilopsiagon aymara Gray-hooded Parakeet 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 LC C A Amazona aestiva Turquoise-fronted Parrot 1, 2 LC R Y Cuculidae Coccyzus melacoryphus Dark-billed Cuckoo 1, 2 LC U S Guira guira Guira Cuckoo 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Tapera naevia Striped Cuckoo 1, 2, 6 LC C S Tytonidae Tyto alba Barn Owl 1, 2, 6, 7 LC U Y Strigidae Bubo virginianus Great Horned Owl 2, 3, 4 LC U Y Megascops choliba Tropical Screech-owl 1, 2 LC C Y Glaucidium brasilianum Ferruginous Pygmy-owl 1, 2 LC C Y Pseudoscops clamator Striped Owl 1LC R Y Athene cunicularia Burrowing Owl 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Strix chacoensis Chaco Owl 1AM R Y Asio flammeus Short-eared Owl 4, 6 LC U Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Caprimulgidae Systellura longirostris Band-winged Nightjar 1, 2 LC U Y Hydropsalis torquata Scissor-tailed Nightjar 1, 2 LC C Y Setopagis parvula Little Nightjar 1 LC C Y Apodidae Streptoprogne zonaris White-collared Swift 2, 3, 4, 5, LC U Y Aeronautes andecolus Andean Swift 2, 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Trochilidae Heliomaster furcifer Blue-tufted Starthroat 1, 2 LC C Y Sephanoides sephaniodes Green-backed Firecrown 2LC A Chlorostilbon lucidus Glittering-bellied Emerald 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Sappho sparganurus Red-tailed Comet 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 LC C A Alcedinidae Chloroceryle amazona Amazon Kingfisher 8, 9, 10 LC U Y Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher 8, 9, 10 LC U Y Megaceryle torquata Ringed Kingfisher 8, 9, 10 LC C Y Bucconidae Nystalus maculatus Spot-backed Puff bird 1, 2 LC C Y Picidae Colaptes campestris Campo Flicker 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Colaptes melanochloros Green-barred Woodpecker 1, 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Melanerpes cactorum White-fronted Woodpecker 1LC C Y Melanerpes candidus White Woodpecker 1, 2 LC U Y Veniliornis mixtus Checkered Woodpecker 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Picumnus cirratus White-barred Piculet 1, 2 LC U Y Campephilus leucopogon Cream-backed Woodpecker 1, 2, 7 LC UY Dryocopus schulzi Black-bodied Woodpecker 2, 7 AM C Y Furnariidae Geositta rufipennis Rufous-banded Miner 3, 4, 5 LC U Y Upucerthia dumetaria Scale-throated Earthcreeper 1, 2 LC UY Tarphonomus certhioides Chaco Earthcreeper 1, 2 LC C Y Cinclodes atacamensis White-winged Cinclodes 8, 9 LC C A Cinclodes comechingonus Cordoba Cinclodes 8, 9 VU C A Cinclodes fuscus Buff-winged Cinclodes 6, 8, 9 LC C W Cinclodes olrogi Olrog's Cinclodes 8, 9 VU C A Furnarius rufus RufousHornero 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Furnarius cristatus Crested Hornero 1, 6 LC C Y Coryphistera alaudina Lark-like Brushrunner 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Phleocryptes melanops Wren-like Rushbird 9, 10 LC U Y Cranioleuca pyrrophia Stripe-crowned Spinetail 1, 2 LC CY Asthenes baeri Short-billed Canastero 1, 2 LC C Y Asthenes pyrrholeuca Sharp-billed Canastero 1, 2 LC U Y Asthenes modesta Cordilleran Canastero 3, 4 LC C Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Asthenes sclateri Puna Canastero 3, 4 LC C Y Anumbius annumbi Firewood-gathered 1, 6 LC C Y Synallaxis frontalis Sooty-fronted Spinetail 1, 2 LC C Y Synallaxis albescens Pale-breasted Spinetail 1, 2 LC C Y Leptasthenura platensis Tufted Tit-spinetail 1, 2 LC C Y Leptasthenura fuliginiceps Brown-capped Tit-spinetail 2, 4, 5 LC U Y Pseudoseisura lophotes Brown Cacholote 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC CY Lepidocolaptes angustirostris Narrow-billed Woodcreeper 1, 2 LC C Y Drymornis bridgesii Scimitar-billed Woodcreeper 1, 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Thamnophilidae Thamnophilus caerulescens Variable Antshrike 1, 2 LC CY Taraba major Great Antshrike 1, 2 LC R Y Rhinocryptidae Rhinocrypta lanceolata Crested Gallito 1, 2 LC U Y Melanopareiidae Melanopareia maximiliani Olive-crowned Crescentchest 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Tyrannidae Southern Beardless- Campostoma obsoletum 1, 2, 7 LC C Y tyrannulent Myiophobus fasciatus Bran-colored Flycatcher 1, 2 LC C S Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer Pearly-vented Tody-tyrant 1, 2 LC C Y Elaenia albiceps White-crested Elaenia 1, 2 LC U S Elaenia parvirostris Small-billed Elaenia 1, 2 LC C S Sublegatus modestus Southern Scrub-fly catcher 1, 2 LC UY Suiriri suiriri Suiriri Flycatcher 1, 2 LC C Y Lessonia rufa Rufous-backed Negrito 8, 9 LC U W Serpophaga nigricans Sooty Tyrannulet 9, 10 LC U Y Serpophaga subcristata White-crested Tyrannulet 1, 2 LC C Y Serpophaga munda White-bellied Tyranulet 1, 2 LC C Y Pyrocephalus rubinus Vermilion Flycatcher 1, 6 LC C S Euscarthmus meloryphus Tawny-crowned Pygmy-tyrant 1, 2 LC C Y Anairetes flavirostris Yellow-billed Tit-tyrant 2LC C Y Anairetes parulus Tufted Tit-tyrant 2, 5 LC U A Stigmatura budytoides Greater Wagtail-tyrant 1, 2 LC CY Myiodynastes maculatus Streaked Flycatcher 2LC C S Pitangus sulphuratus Great Kiskadee 1, 6, 7 LC C Y Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C S Machetornis rixosa Cattle Tyrant 1, 6, 7 LC C Y Myiarchus tyrannulus Brown-crested Flycatcher 1, 2 LC R S Myiarchus swainsoni Swainson's Flycatcher LC C S Hirundinea ferruginea Cliff F lycatcher 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Knipolegus aterrinus White-winged Black-tyrant 1LC U S Knipolegus striaticeps Cinereous Tyrant 1LC U S Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Hymenops perspicillatus Spectacled Tyrant 1, 3, 4 LC CY Empidonomus Crowned Slaty-fly catcher 1, 2, 7 LC C S aurantioatrocristatus Tyrannus savana Fork-tailed Flycatcher 1, 7 LC C S Xolmis coronatus Black-crowned Monjita 1LC U W Xolmis irupero White Monjita 1, 6 LC C Y Agriornis micropterus Gray-bellied Shrike-tyrant 1, 2, 3, LC U W Agriornis murinus Lesser Shrike-tyrant 1, 6 LC U W Agriornis montanus Black-billed Shrike-tyrant 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Muscisaxicola rufivertex Rufous-naped Ground-tyrant 3, 4 LC C Y Muscisaxicola maclovianus Dark-faced Ground-tyrant 6 LC U W Tityridae Pachyramphus validus Crested Becard 2LC U S Pachyramphus polychopterus White-winged Becard 2LC U S Cotingidae Phytotoma rutila White-tipped Plantcutter 1, 3, 6 LC C Y Vireonidae Vireo olivaceus Red-eye Vireo 1, 2 LC C S Cyclarhis gujanensis Rufous-browed Peppershrike 1, 2 LC C Y Hirundinidae Progne elegans Southern Martin 2, 3, 6 LC C S Progne tapera Brown-chested Martin 2, 3 LC C S Tachycineta leucorrhoa White-rumped Swallow 1, 2, 7 LC C S Tachycineta leucopyga Chilean Swallow 1LC C W Pygochelidon cyanoleuca Blue-and-White Swallow 1, 2 LC C Y Troglodytidae Troglodytes aedon House Wren 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Cistothorus platensis Grass Wren 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Polioptilidae Polioptila dumicola Masked Gnatcatcher 1, 2, 3 LC C Y Turdidae Catharus ustulatus Swainson's Thrush 1, 2 LC R S Turdus amaurochalinus Creamy-bellied Thrush 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Turdus rufiventris Rufous-bellied Thrush 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 LC C Y Turdus nigriceps Slaty Thrush 2LC U Y 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Turdus chiguanco Chiguanco Thrush LC C Y 6, 7 Mimidae Mimus triurus White-banded Mockingbird 1, 6 LC C W Mimus patagonicus Patagonian Mockingbird 1LC U W Mimus saturninus Chalk-browed Mockingbird 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Motacillidae Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Anthus furcatus Short-billed Pipit 3, 5 LC U Y Anthus lutescens Yellowwish Pipit 3LC U Y Anthus hellmayri Hellmayr's Pipit 3 LC C Y Parulidae Parula pitiayumi Tropical Parula 1LC U Y Geothlypis aequinoctialis Masked Yellothroat 1, 2 LC C Y Myioborus brunniceps Brown-capped Redstart 3, 4, 5 LC C A Thraupidae Pipraeidea bonariensis Blue-and-yellow Tanager 1, 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Thraupis sayaca Sayaca Tanager 1LC C Y Phrygilus alaudinus Band-tailed Sierra-finch 3, 4 LC C Y Phrygilus unicolor Plumbeous Sierra-finch 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Phrygilus carbonarius Carbonated Sierra-finch 1, 2 LC R W Phrygilus plebejus Ash-breasted Sierra-finch 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Sicalis flaveola Saffron Yellow-finch 1, 6, 7 LC CY Sicalis luteola Grassland Yellow-finch 1, 6 LC C Y Saltraticula multicolor Many-colored Chaco-finch 1LC C Y Poospiza ornata Cinnamon Warbling-finch 1VU C W Poospiza hypochondria Rufous-sided Warbling-finch 3, 5 LC U Y Black-and-rufous Warbling- Poospiza nigrorufa 1, 2 LC C Y finch Poospiza torquata Ringed Warbling-finch 1LC C Y Poospiza melanoleuca Black-capped Warbling-finch 1, 2 LC C Y Lophospingus pusillus Black-crested Finch 1LC U Y Gubernatrix cristata Yellow Cardinal 1, 2 EN R Paroaria coronata Red-crested Cardinal 1LC UY Coryphospingus cucullatus Red-crested Finch 1LC U Y Sporophila caerulescens Double-collared Seedeater 1, 2 LC C S Catamenia analis Band-tailed Seedeater 2, 3, 4 LC C Y Catamenia inornata Plain-colored Seedeater 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Diuca diuca Common Diuca-finch 1LC C S Embernagra platensis Great Pampa-finch 1, 3 LC C Y Saltator aurantiirostris Golden-billed Saltator 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Emberizidae 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Zonotrichia capensis Rufous-collared Sparrow LC C Y 6, 7 Rhynchospiza strigiceps Stripe-capped Sparrow 1LC C Y Ammodramus humeralis Grassland Sparrow 1, 3 LC C Y Cardinalidae Pheucticus aureoventris Black-backed Grosbeak 2, 3, 5 LC U S Piranga flava Hepatic Tanager 1, 2 LC C Y Cyanocompsa brissonii Ultramarine Grosbeak 1, 2 LC U Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Icteridae Icterus cayanensis Epaulet Oriole 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Molothrus rufoaxillaris Screaming Cowbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Molothrus bonariensis Shiny Cowbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Agelaioides badius Bay-winged Cowbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Sturnella loyca Long-tailed Meadowlark 3, 4 LC C Y Sturnella superciliaris White-browed Blackbird 1, 6 LC C Y Fringillidae Euphonia chlorotica Purple-throated Euphonia 1, 2 LC U Y Sporagra magellanica Hooded Siskin 1, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Passeridae Passer domesticus House Sparrow 6, 7 LC C Y APPENDIX II Bird species predicted to occur at our study area and including probable habitat (see references in Appendix I). It includes species known from nearby areas, based on Nores (1996) and unpublished data. Species English name Environment Annas cyanoptera Cinnamon Teal 10 Buteo swainsoni Swainson's Hawk 1, 6 Pandion haliaetus Osprey 10 Cariama cristata Red-legged Seriema 1 Nyctibius griseus Common Potoo 1 Chordeiles minor Common Nighthawk 1 Chaetura meridionalis Sick's Swift 1 Upucerthia validirostris Buff-breasted Earthcreeper 4 Leptasthenura aegithaloides Tufted Tit-Spinetail 1 Phacellodomus sibilatrix Little Thornbir d 1 Lathrotriccus euleri Euler's Flycatcher 1 Pseudocolopteryx acutipennis Subtropical Doradito 3, 4 Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris Warbling Doradito 9, 10 Tachuris rubrigastra Many-colored Rush-tyrant 9, 10 Knipolegus hudsoni Hudson's Black-tyrant 1, 6 Muscisaxicola capistratus Cinnamon-bellied Ground-tyrant 4, 6 Phrygilus gayi Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch 1, 3, 4 Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 http://www.deepdyve.com/assets/images/DeepDyve-Logo-lg.png Ornithology Research Springer Journals

Bird assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra Valley in central Argentina: an important area for conservation of Chacoan and mountain birds

Download PDF
18 pages

Loading next page...
 
/lp/springer-journals/bird-assemblages-from-western-sierras-grandes-and-traslasierra-valley-QIwH734JSV

References (78)

Publisher
Springer Journals
Copyright
Copyright © Sociedade Brasileira de Ornitologia 2018
eISSN
2178-7875
DOI
10.1007/bf03544423
Publisher site
See Article on Publisher Site

Abstract

Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 123–140. ARTICLE June 2018 Bird assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra Valley in central Argentina: an important area for conservation of Chacoan and mountain birds 1,8 2 3 4 David Lautaro Vergara-Tabares , Alejandro Alberto Schaaf , Ernesto Gustavo Verga , Agustín Ignacio Quaglia , 5 6 7 1 1 Tobías Nicolás Rojas , Martín Toledo , Emiliano García , Susana Inés Peluc & Agustín Díaz Instituto de Diversidad y Ecología Animal (IDEA-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina. Instituto de Ecorregiones Andinas (INECOA-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, Jujuy, Argentina. Instituto Multidisciplinario de Biología Vegetal (UNC-CONICET), Córdoba, Argentina. Laboratorio de Arbovirus, Instituto de Virología “Dr. J. M. Vanella”, Facultad de Ciencias. Médicas (FCM-UNC), Córdoba, Argentina. Instituto de Ecología Regional, (IER-CONICET), Universidad Nacional de Tucumán e Instituto Miguel Lillo, Tucumán, Argentina. Arenales 990, Torre Verde 7B- Córdoba, Argentina. Rincón 28, Villa Giardino, Córdoba, Argentina. Corresponding author: davidlautarov@gmail.com Received on 22 June 2017. Accepted on 29 March 2018. ABSTRACT: Between 1970 and 1980, many ornithological prospections were made in central Argentina. With this work we intend to fill some of the existing gaps regar ding such knowledge. We conducted bird surveys in the central-western region of Córdoba province. We identified 240 bird species (63% of province's avifauna) belonging to 48 families: 10 of which are considered under some threat category, 37 are migrants, and two are endemic to the region. Throughout a qualitative analysis of or dination, we identified t hree clusters of environments that share similar bird composition. Among those, the most dissimilar group was composed of aquatic environments, whereas the two other groups included wooded and anthropized environments and high altitude environments, respectively. The high bird richness recorded in a relatively small region, encompassing a variety of environments, place upon this area a high bird conservation value. The inclusion of this area in the system of “Important Bir d Areas” (IBAs) may prompt protection actions. KEY-WORDS: altitudinal gradient, bird diversity, endemic birds, environmental heterogeneity, IBAs, threatened birds. INTRODUCTION Giraudo et al. 2006). Historically, the high bird abundance and the Located in central Argentina, Córdoba province hosts a presence of endemic and threatened species has conferred large and diverse number of avian species. Approximately the province high conservation value. Córdoba avifauna 376 native bird species within 51 families have been includes eight species endemic to Argentina and nine recorded (Stempelmann & Schulz 1890, Frenzel 1891, species globally endangered or threatened (López-Lanús et al. 2008). This has sustained t he designation of nine Nores & Yzurieta 1975, Nores & Yzurieta 1979, Nores et al. 1980, Nores et al. 1983, Narosky & Yzurieta Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Córdoba province (Di 1989, Nores et al. 1996). These species are distributed Giacomo 2005). However, only fifty per cent of those in Córdoba throughout a large variety of habitats, such IBAs have effective protection. Furthermore, other as grassy highlands, xerophytic woodlands, wetlands and regions with potential for avian conservation remain out of consideration due to the lack of information marshes. This is the result of the convergence of several ecological regions: the Great Chaco Ecoregion, the regarding avian species presence and distribution. Some Pampas Ecoregion, and the Espinal Ecoregion (Luti et al. of these regions are still relatively unaffected by anthropic 1979, Zak & Cabido 2002, Nori et al. 2011). Despite disturbance, as is the case for western Sierras Grandes and the biodiversity found throughout this province, existing Traslasierra Valley. Sierras Grandes and the adjacent Sierras of ornithological studies show a clear bias towards a few major areas: Mar Chiquita Lake in the northeast, and Comechingones (Sierras Grandes-Comechingones the grasslands on the top of Sierras Grandes in central hereafter) are the highest mountains within Córdoba Córdoba (e.g. Nores & Yzurieta 1983, Nores 1995, province (maximum height 2780 m a.s.l.). The western Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. face presents short and steep slopes, where numerous METHODS streams run down, some of which shape the basin of Río de los Sauces and Allende Lake, commonly under Study area the denomination “Traslasierra Valley” (Carignano et al. 2014, Fig. 1). Río de los Sauces alluvial valley has a plant Surveys were conducted in an area of Sierras Grandes community typical of Chaco lowland Forest, yet the delimited in the north by the rivers Río Chico de Nono mountain slopes also comprise a variety of contrasting and Río de los Sauces and the coast of Allende Lake. In vegetation units (i.e. woodland, shrubland, grassland; see the east, the area was limited by the Sierras Grandes- description in study site section) in accordance with the Comechingones summit. The west and south limits altitudinal gradient (600 to 2700 m a.s.l.). This particular correspond to the meridian 65 03'W and the parallel o 2 topography allows for the development of a highly 32 10'S, respectively, comprising an area of 464.75 km heterogeneous landscape in a relatively small area, and (Fig. 1). the variety of environments hosts a great bird diversity. The physiognomy of plant communities and main For example, the mountain tops include birds with an plant species observed along Traslasierra Valley and Andean origin, whereas lowland areas have Chacoans western Sierras Grandes-Comechingones system from species (Nores & Yzurieta 1983, Nores & Cerana 1990). lowest to the highest altitude (sensu Luti et al. 1979, Fig. These characteristics confer western Sierras Grandes- 2) included: Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley a high value for Lowland Chaco woodland (500–800 m a.s.l.): bird conservation. this area is dominated by several tree species such as The main goals of this study were to (1) study Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco, Prosopis flexuosa, Prosopis avian richness and composition while comparing bird chilensis, Ziziphus mistol and Cercidium australe. Shrubs assemblages among different habitats, and to (2) assess commonly found in the area include Larrea divaricata, the feasibility of including this region into the system Mimozyganthus carinatus, Maytenus spinosa, and Acacia of IBAs. Specifically, we seek to know the avian richness furcatispina (Cabido et al. 1992). and avian community composition at western Sierras Mountain Chaco woodland (800–1350 m a.s.l.): Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley, and to characterized by the dominating presence of Lithraea identify the similarities between bird assemblages among molleoides and, to a lesser extent, Celtis ehrenbergiana, different habitat types. Our study aims to improve the Bouganvillea stipitata, Schinopsis haenkeana, and understanding of the distribution of avian species across Xanthopylum coco. Among the shrubs, dominant species different habitats in this heterogeneous area, which include Flourensia sp. and Condalia buxifolia (Cabido et historically has been understudied by ornithologists, in al. 1998). order to highlight the importance of this area for the Mountain shrubland (1350–1700 m a.s.l.): this conservation of birds in Lowland and Mountain Chaco community is characterized by the lack of trees, the region. dominant shrub being Heterothalamus alienus, and to Figure 1. The map represents the location of our study site in Córdoba province, Argentina. The black shading area in the South American map represents the Great Chaco Forest. The red area in the right square indicates the study area, the north e dge is delimitated by Río Chico de Nono, Río de los Sauces and the northern coast of Allende artificial lake, the east boundary is the maximal coat o o of Sierras Grandes-Comechingones, and the west and south limits correspond to the meridian 65 03'W and the parallel 32 10'S respectively. The delimited area goes from 700 m a.s.l. at the west limit to 2780 m a.s.l. (Champaquí peak, the highest altitude in Córdoba province) at the east limit. The area occupies 464.75 km . Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. a lesser extent Acacia caven, Baccharis sp., and many Data collection Poaceae species. Mountain grassland and Polylepis forest (1700– Three different survey techniques were used to prevent 2800 m a.s.l.): consists of a mosaic of Polylepis australis biases that may be caused by one single technique woodland (mainly in humid and pronounced ravines), (Bibby et al. 2000): (a) detection of species presence tussock grasslands (dominated by Poa stuckertii, Deyeuxia through direct observations with binoculars and aural hieronymi), grazing lawn (dominated by Alchemilla-Carex identification of songs, (b) re cording of species presence lawn), granite outcrops, and eroded areas with exposed by means of capture with mist nets and (c) recording rock surface (Cingolani et al. 2004, 2008). of species presence via interviews with local residents. We assigned surveyed birds to different habitat types Scientific nomenclature is in accor dance with South considering the following environment classification American Classification Committee (SACC–American based on previous descriptions (see Fig. 2): 1 - artificial Ornithologists' Union, Remsen-Jr. et al. 2015). The lake; 2 - river; 3 - stream; 4 - lowland forest; 5 - mountain conservation status of each bird species follows López- forest; 6 - mountain shrubland; 7 - mountain grassland; Lanús et al. (2008). 8 - Polylepis forest; 9 - agricola field; and 10 - urban area. (a) Between January 2011 and December 2015, Figure 2. Different environments included in the study area. (A) Mountain grassland, (B) ravine with a Polylepis forest, (C) mountain shrubland, (D) mountain forest, (E) panoramic view of Traslasierra Valley showing Allende artificial lake, and (F) low land forest. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. we conducted approximately 80 surveys in the study the most represented families were Accipitridae, Ardeidae, area and registered bird species visually and aurally. Each Picidae, and Rallidae with 12, 8, 8, and 8 species survey consisted in walks during time-periods of high respectively. Forty-five species occurred ex clusively within bird activity, from sunrise to midday and from 5:00 to one type of environment (Fig. 3A, Appendix I) and two sunset. In addition, we conducted nocturnal walks using species occurred in seven non-aquatic environments (i.e. playback to detect nocturnal species of Caprimulgidae Turdus chiguanco and Zonotrichia capensis). According to and Strigiformes. Sixty percent of those surveys were López-Lanús et al. (2008), we recorded two “Endangered” conducted in areas corresponding to lowland and species (Gubernatrix cristata only through interviews and mountain Chaco woodland (data from a collateral specific Buteogallus coronatus), two threatened species, and six study, Vergara-Tabares 2017), and areas of Allende “Vulnerable” species (although S. chacoensis only through artificial Lake and Río de los Sauces. interviews, Appendix I). (b) During the autumn-winter 2014, we used Graphical exploration with UPGMA showed three mist nets in three sectors of mountain woodland. groups of habitats based on bird assemblage composition We also used mist nets during 20–29 April, 10– (Table 1, Fig. 4). Two similar groups included: 1) 19 July, and 20–29 September at three sites [Los mountain shrubland, mountain grassland, and Polylepis o o Hornillos (3154'5.10''S; 64 58'28.92''W), San forest (“highland habitats” hereafter), and 2) lowland o o Javier (32 1'42.77''S; 65 0'13.34''W) and Luyaba forest, mountain forest, agricola field, and urban areas o o (32 10'4.44''S; 65 0'29.35''W)]. Nets were mounted in (“lowland habitats” hereafter). The thir d, less similar, sites with intense bird activity and were separated by at group included the following aquatic habitats: artificial least 50 m (i.e. near the streams and/or between patches lake, stream, and river (“aquatic habitats” hereafter). We of arboreal vegetation). We opened four 12-m nets from sunrise to 12:00 h and from 16:00 h to sunset during three successive days (approximately 108 h/net per site). (c) Interviews: some local residents, mostly rural inhabitants, were interviewed and questioned about the bird species they had identified to be in the region. In order to minimize the confusion generated by common bird names (which vary from one region to another), we used photo books of Chacoan birds with their scientific and common names to avoid misleading recognitions. This methodology allowe d us to check in loco whether the species mentioned in the interviews were expected to occur in this region of study, focusing on those species that may have suffered local extinctions in many sites of their ranges (e.g. Gubernatrix cristata, Strix chacoensis and Pheucticus aureoventris). Data analysis We graphically explored the relationship among the different habitats and bir d assemblage composition using UPGMA based on Jaccard's qualitative index of similarity. Qualitative indexes were estimated on a presence-absence matrix of birds registered in the different habitats. We used the Vegan package (Oksanen et al. 2007) in the free user analysis platform R (R Core Team 2012). Figure 3. (A) Number of bird species recorded at each environment of our study site. The light gray section of the bar indicates the number of species that inhabits exclusively RESULTS that particular environment and the dark gray section shows the number of species that are found in more than one A total of 240 species of birds belonging to 48 families environment. (B) Proportion of exclusive (light gray bars) and were recorded (Appendix I). The most represented families shared (dark gray bars) species per group of habitats (number were Tyrannidae, Furnariidae, and Thraupidae with 35, of species in bold numbers). Group of habitats are illustrated 24, and 24 species, respectively. For the non-passerines, in Fig. 4. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Table 1. Similarity matrix of Jaccard index among habitats surveyed in western slopes of Sierras Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley, Argentina. Lowland Mountain Mountain Mountain Polylepis Agricola Urban Artificial Stream River forest forest shrubland grassland forest field area lake Lowland forest 1.00 Mountain forest 0.59 1.00 Mountain shrubland 0.14 0.22 1.00 Mountain grassland 0.05 0.11 0.50 1.00 Polylepis forest 0.01 0.07 0.29 0.29 1.00 Agricola field 0.30 0.21 0.17 0.11 0.04 1.00 Urban area 0.28 0.32 0.24 0.12 0.07 0.47 1.00 Stream 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.04 0.00 1.00 River 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.03 0.01 0.36 1.00 Artificial lake 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.01 0.00 0.01 0.01 0.11 0.60 1.00 DISCUSSION Noteworthy species Below we present some information and comments about noteworthy birds species registered in the study area, including species threatened by local activities, species included in threat categories, and endemic species. Some of this information may be relevant for conservation purposes (Di Giacomo 2005). Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus): its range formerly stretched along the total length of the Andes mountains, from Venezuela to Tierra del Fuego, including Sierras Centrales of Córdoba and San Luis (Houston et al. 2016). We frequently observed this nearly-threatened species in our study site (Fig. 5A, B). In a few opportunities, we observed groups of 40–50 individuals feeding on dead horses or cows in areas above 1400 m a.s.l. Although a population decline has been reported for this species in Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia, the species appears to be common and the population seems to be stable in Argentina (Houston et al. 2016). However, in Argentina, Figure 4. Hierarchical clustering analysis (UPGMA) for avian assemblages in different habitats in western slopes of Sierras lead poisoning (from ammunition used to hunt game) Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley using Jaccard is potentially a new and increasing threat for the species similarity distances. (Saggese et al. 2009, Lambertucci et al. 2011). Chaco Eagle (Buteogallus coronatus): We recorded two individuals of this eagle during 2011 in the central area of our study region (Fig. 5D) and we found the regrouped species a posteriori to count species exclusively first active nest for Cór doba province (previous to this present in each group of habitats. Aquatic habitats showed study there were only hints but no confirmation that the the highest proportion of exclusive species (but the lowest species would potentially nest in the region, Torres et al. bird richness) and highland habitats was the group with 2006). On 03 February 2014, we found one nest in the lowest proportion of exclusive species. Lowland habitats southern portion of the prospected area with one nestling showed intermediate proportions of exclusive species but in advanced state of development (Fig. 5C). We were the highest richness (129 species, see Fig. 3B). able to record many feeding events by both parents (see A total of 17 species expected to ocurr in the area Capdevielle et al. 2015). The nest consisted of a p latform were not found (Appendix II). built on a Molle de Beber (Lithraea molleoides) located in Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. the mountain forest (at ~950 m a.s.l.). During the two woodland in lowland areas (Maceda 2007). In view of its following years, a pair of B. coronatus produced a new low population density and the number of threats faced nestling in the same nest. Distribution of B. coronatus in by this species, the IUCN Red List conservation status of western and north central Argentina extends south to Río the Chaco Eagle is “Endangered” (BirdLife International Negro, La Pampa, and southern Buenos Aires (Collar et 2016). al. 1992, Gonnnet & Blendinger 1998). This eagle occurs Spot-winged Falconet (Spiziapteryx circumcincta): in open and semi open habitats consisting of mixed this monotypic species is considered endemic to the open grassland, bushland, savannah, marsh and open Chaco region, but is also present in monte shrubs of Río Figure 5. Noteworthy bird species registered at our sturdy area: (A) group of juvenile individuals of Andean Condors; (B) adults Andean Condors, a female on the left and a male on the right; (C) Crowned Eagle fledglings in their nest. First recor ds of a Crowned Eagle nest for Córdoba province; (D) one of the Crowned Eagle pair that produced fledglings; (E) group of Burrowing Parrots that conform a colony in Los Barrancos Wildlife Refuge; (F) male of Black-bodied Woodpecker, the second woodpecker most abundant in mountain forests (Vergara-Tabares, unpub. data); (G) Olrog's Cinclodes, one of two endemic species in central mountains of Cordoba province; (H) male of Black-backed Grosbeak, a species threatened by illegal captures and traffic for cage birds. Photo author: D.L. Vergara-Tabares. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Negro, Argentina (Bierregaard et al. 2016). This species their southern limit ‒ (Vergara-Tabares, unpub. data). is not globally threatened (Bierregaard-Jr. et al. 2016), Madroño & Pearman (1992) suggest the existence of two but López-Lanús et al. (2008) categorized this falconet main populations, one in central Paraguay and the other as “Vulnerable” in Argentina. Its status is virtually one in Córdoba province. However, Yzurieta (1995) has unknown, although it is considered locally common in stated that this woodpecker is rare in Córdoba, contrary to Córdoba, where its habitat has been seriously devastated our observations in the study area. Big woodpeckers, such in the region (Zak & Cabido 2002). We recorded this as D. schulzi, are sensitive to logging and deforestation, as species in lowland forests and, in lower frequencies, in trees are required to build their nests (Lammertink 2014). mountain forests mainly during winter. Therefore, urbanization of pristine mountain forests Burrowing Parrot (Cyanoliseus patagonus): this may present a new threat for these locally abundant species includes 4 subspecies, where C. p. conlara (Nores populations of D. schulzi. Human activity may not only & Yzurieta 1983) occurs in San Luis and Córdoba threaten the survival of D. schulzi populations, but also provinces. Masello et al. (2011) evidenced that this the presence or persistence of other woodpecker species, subspecies represents a hybrid population of C. p. including the southernmost populations of Campephilus patagonus and C. p. andinus, and this is the most genetically leucopogon (Mikusiński 2006), an uncommon species in diverse of the four C. patagonus taxonomic groups. This Córdoba (Yzurieta 1995). population was identified as one of four management Cordoba Cinclodes (Cinclodes comechingonus): units for conservation, being important for their genetic this species breeds only in the isolated Sierras Grandes, characteristics and low population size (1700 individuals; occupying mainly streams in mountain grasslands and Masello et al. 2015). Due to behavioral attributes, we were Polylepis forests (Remsen-Jr. 2016a). We recorded this able to register four noteworthy colonies of Burrowing species in all mountain grasslands and Polylepis forests. Parrots in our study area. The largest colony occurs During autumn-winter, we observed individuals at lower within the limits of Los Barrancos Wildlife Refuge, and altitudes (~900 m a.s.l.). Although this species inhabits a the others (similar in size), occur in burrows at Río de restricted range, it is not considered globally threatened Los Sauces and in ravines at mountain area between 900 because the habitat occupied by this species is relatively and 1000 m a.s.l. However, smaller groups were recorded free from human disturbances other than cattle grazing feeding along all the woody areas in our study region (Cingolani et al. 2004). (except in Polylepis forests, Fig. 5E). Olrog's Cinclodes (Cinclodes olrogi): this species Chaco Owl (Strix chacoensis): the geographic (Fig. 5G) is restricted to the Sierras Grandes, mirroring distribution of the Chaco Owl overlaps approximately the distribution of the Cordoba Cinclodes (Remsen- 90% of the overall Chaco region (Trejo et al. 2012). Jr. 2016b). In winter, we recorded C. olrogi in streams This owl inhabits both dense and semi-open vegetation at lower elevations. This species is less common than C. on hilly and flat areas (Cra craft 1985). Despite its wide comechingonus, and it is more strictly associated with distribution, it is listed as “Vulnerable” in Argentina (e.g. streams. López-Lanús et al. 2008, Trejo et al. 2012). López-Lanús Cinnamon Warbling-finch (Poospiza ornata): this is a et al. (2008) consider S. chacoensis moderately sensitive to species endemic to Argentina (Mazar-Barnett & Pearman anthropogenic habitat changes. Habitat conversion and 2001). In summer, P. ornata occur in a strip that extends fragmentation is probably the main threat to this species from northwestern to southeastern Argentina, moving (Holt et al. 2016).  In Córdoba province, the species to sites located further north and east of its summer has been recorded in Chancani Provincial Park and distribution during the winter (Cueto et al. 2011). We we documented its presence in lowland forest via local have obtained scarce records, only in lowland forests, interviews. Although we conducted night searches of S. during our surveys. Although this species is a common chacoensis using playbacks, we were unable to detect this inhabitant of arid lowland woodlands and shrubs in the species. Monte Desert, and taller shrubs in xeric Andean foothill Black-bodied Woodpecker (Dryocopus schulzi): this ravines, some individuals may arrive at lowland Chaco woodpecker (Fig. 5F) is endemic to the Chaco region, Forest (Traslasierra Valley) in winter (Jaramillo 2016b). and it is considered “Nearly Threatened ” (López-Lanúz et Poopiza ornata was classified as “Least Concern” by al. 2008, Lammertink 2014, Winkler & Christie 2016). IUCN (2011). However, López-Lanús et al. (2008) have Despite its wide distribution across the Chaco region, listed this species as “Vulnerable”, due to its restricted this species is generally rare on a local scale (Madroño distribution, the imposing risk by illegal wildlife trade, & Pearman 1992). However, on a regional scale in the and the lack of accurate information about its population western face of Sierras Grandes-Comechingones, we size and dynamics. commonly recorded this woodpecker in mountain Yellow Cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata): this species forests habitats from Las Chacras to Luyaba ‒ close to historically occurred in north and central Argentina, Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. extreme southeastern Brazil and Uruguay. Currently, this territory) hosts 63.6% of the overall avifauna of Córdoba species is one of the few Neotropical birds that has suffered province. Moreover, not only is it remarkable for the rich a massive and negative effect from the caged bird trade. composition of its avifauna, but also for the presence Consequently, remaining populations of this cardinal of some threatened species, such as B. coronatus at both are small and fragmented (Jaramillo 2016a). During the regional and global scales. Another important observation 1980's, Miatello et al. (1994) registered some individuals is the common presence of the "Near Threatened" D. in several areas inside and adjacent to our study site. schulzi in mountain forests and endemic and restricted- Based on this observation, Nores (1996) considered range species such as C. comechingonus and C. olrogi that this species under recovery in Córdoba province. We highlight the conservation value of the area for birds. performed specific sear ches for this species using playback The great bir d richness found in the area is likely due without success. Contrasting with our negative results, to two main factors. First, the evident altitudinal gradient the interviews with rural inhabitants reveal the presence in the study area (from 600 m a.s.l to 2800 m a.s.l) allows of G. cristata until five years ago. for the existence of several contrasting vegetation units. Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus aureoventris): This heterogeneous landscape is able to host different bird this species (Fig. 5H) is distributed in south Peru, south assemblages, such as grassland birds, woody birds, and and east Bolivia and northwestern Argentina (Brewer & aquatic birds. Secondly, although in Córdoba province de Juana 2014). Although most of the populations are the expansion of the agricultural frontier for the past 30 sedentary, there is some evidence that suggests a pattern years is alarming, especially in the north, east and south of local movements at the geographical end of its range of of the province (Silvetti 2012, Hoyos et al. 2013, Cáceres distribution that includes our study site (Chebez 2009). 2015), this process in the west of the province is less In accordance with this evidence, our observational evident, leaving large forest areas which still host a rich records for this species were obtained only during the diversity of birds. Nevertheless, agricultural and urban breeding season in spring-summer, only in ravines from encroachments are recent threats to this area, particularly 900 to 2000 m a.s.l. (i.e. mountain woodlands and the replacement of natural cover by soybean crops under Polylepis forests). In addition, we found two nests during artificial irrigation (Fe hlenberg et al. 2017). December 2012 near Los Hornillos stream. Although We identified t hree groups of habitats based on López-Lanús et al. (2008) considered P. aureoventris a similarity of bird assemblages. The most dissimilar group non-threatened species in Argentina, at a local scale its corresponded to aquatic habitats (i.e. stream, river, and presence is rare, making this species especially valuable to artificial lake). The other two groups were composed of be trapped and caged as a pet. We also directly observed terrestrial habitats: one included wooded and anthropized extraction of nestlings for bird trade, activity that would habitats at low altitude between 600 and 1300 m a.s.l. reduce the reproductive success of its wild populations (i.e. lowland forest, mountain forest, agricola field, and (López-Lanús et al. 2008). urban area) and the other group included highland Ultramarine Grosbeak (Cyanocompsa brissonii): this habitats above 1300 m a.s.l. (i.e. mountain shrubland, species has a large range of distribution (Brewer 2016) mountain grassland, and Polylepis forest). Aquatic habitats and is considered a quite common species. In Argentina, had the greatest proportion of exclusive species, a pattern it is also considered a quite common and non-threatened explained by the presence of aquatic specialized species species (López-Lanús et al. 2008). Although this species (see Fig. 3B). Though, notably, t his group also presents is not included in any threat category, the loss and the lowest richness. Despite the fact that lowland habitats fragmentation of its habitat and the illegal capture and do not show a high proportion of exclusive species, these trade of individuals as cage birds represent a conservation habitats present the highest richness (see Fig. 3A, B). Given problem. In fact, this species is one of the most common the pattern of habitat aggregation and great number of illegally traded species (Ferreira & Glock 2004, Alves exclusive species in each group, we considered that these et al. 2010, Richard et al. 2010). We observed captive entities might represent discrete units of conservation individuals in numerous houses throughout our study that would be susceptible to different human threats and area. worthy of protection. Each group of habitats and their associated avifauna Bird assemblages and human threats seem to suffer from different threats. For instance, in the lowland habitats, forests are replaced by agricultural In this study, we recorded 240 bird species in several bird habitats (lowland forest) and urban habitats (lowland assemblages from western Sierras Grandes and Traslasierra and mountain forests). Furthermore, highland habitats Valley in central Argentina. Considering that in Córdoba experience anthropogenic fires and over-grazing of province there are 376 cited species (Nores et al. 1996), it grasslands that contribute to the increasing erosion rates is noteworthy that the study area (0.28% of the provincial (Argañaraz et al. 2015). Finally, the capture of some Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Brewer D. 2016. Ultramarine Grosbeak (Cyanocompsa brissonii). In: species for caged bird trade is a widely distributed and del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. & de Juana E. common activity in cities such as Villa Dolores and Mina (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Clavero (pers. obs.). Because of the high avifauna richness Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/62212 (Access on 07 of the region, as well as its numerous threats, it is necessary February 2016). to conduct educational and awareness campaigns focused Cabido M., Acosta A., Carranza M.L. & S. Díaz. 1992. La vegetación del Chaco Árido en el W. de la provincia de Córdoba, Argentina. on the local community to highlight the importance Documents Phytosociologiques 14: 447–456. of the area for forest and bird conservation. The study Cabido M., Funes G., Pucheta E., Vendramini F. & Díaz S. 1998. area represents an important remnant of lowland and A chorological analysis of the mountains from central Argentina. mountain Chaco Forest in a province with only 3% Is all what we call Sierra Chaco really Chaco? Contribution to the study of the flora and vegetation of the Chaco. Candollea 53: of the original forest remaining (Hoyos et al. 2013). 321–331. This area has been identified as one with priority for Cáceres D.M. 2015. Accumulation by dispossession and socio- endemic conservation for the Great Chaco region (Nori environmental conflicts caused by the expansion of agribusiness et al. 2016). The inclusion of the area in the system of in Argentina. Journal of Agrarian Change 15: 116–147. Capdevielle A.E., Encabo M., Albisu J.A. & Harteneck M. 2015. Important Bird Areas (IBAs) is imperative to preserve this Primera descripción de dieta en época reproductiva Águila particular and threatened ecosystem in Córdoba province Coronada Harpyhaliaetus coronatus en la región del Chaco and its rich and unique bird community. We believe this Serrano, p. 70. In: Gonzalez E. (ed.). Libro del resúmenes de la inclusion would contribute to the development of bird XVI Reunión Argentina de Ornitología, v. 1. La Plata: Imprenta del and environment conservation and education programs. Museo de La Plata. Carignano C.A., Kröhling D., Degiovanni S. & Cioccale M.A. 2014. Geomorfología, p. 747–822. In: Martino R.D. & Guereschi A. (eds.). Relatorio del 19º Congreso Geológico Argentino: Geología ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS y Recursos Naturales de la Provincia de Córdoba.. Córdoba: Asociación Geológica Argentina. We thank Miguel Santillan and an anonymous reviewer Chebez J.C. 2009. Otros que se van, v. 1. Buenos Aires: Editorial Albatros. of this manuscript for constructive comments. We also Cingolani A.M., Renison D., Zak M.R. & Cabido M.R. 2004. want to thank Miguel Saggese for his valuable comments Mapping vegetation in a heterogeneous mountain rangeland on this work. We especially thank R. Schmidt for help using landsat data: an alternative method to define and classify with English aspects of the manuscript. Partial funding land-cover units. Remote Sensing of Environment 92: 84–97. Cingolani A.M., Renison D., Tecco P.A., Gurvich D.E. & Cabido was provided by Ruffor d Small Grants from The Ruffor d M. 2008. Predicting cover types in a mountain range with Foundation and by the Association of Field Ornithologists long evolutionary grazing history: a GIS approach. Journal of (AFO; Bergstrom Memorial Award to D.L.V.-T.). S.I.P. Biogeography 35: 538–551. is a researcher at CONICET. D.L.V.-T., A.A.S., E.G.V., Collar N.J., Gonzaga L.P., Krabbe N., Madroño-Nieto A., Naranjo A.Q., T.N.R., and A.D. are CONICET fellowship L.G., Parker T.A. & Wege D.C. 1992. Threatened bir ds of the Americas, v. 2. Cambridge: ICBP. holders. Cracraft J. 1985. Historical biogeography and patterns of differentiation within the South American avifauna: areas of endemism. Ornithological Monographs 36: 49–84. REFERENCES Cueto V.R., Milesi F.A., Sagario M.C., Casenave J.L & Marone L. 2011. Distribución geográfica y patrones de movimiento de la Monterita Canela (Poospiza ornata) y el Yal Carbonero (Phrygilus Alves R.R.N., Nogueira E.E.G., Araujo H.F.P. & Brooks S.E. 2010. carbonarius) en Argentina. Ornitología Neotropical 22: 483–494. Bird-keeping in the Caatinga, NE Brazil. Human Ecology 38: Di Giacomo A.S., 2005. Áreas importantes para la conservación de 147–156. las aves en Argentina. Sitios prioritarios para la conservación de la Argañaraz J., Pizarro G.G., Zak M. & Bellis L.M. 2015. Fire regime, biodiversidad. Temas de Naturaleza y Conservación. Buenos Aires: climate and vegetation in the Sierras de Córdoba, Argentina. Fire Aves Argentinas/Asociación ornitológica del Plata. Ecology 11: 55–73. Fehlenberg V., Baumann M., Gasparri N.I., Piquer-Rodriguez M., Bibby C.J., Burgess N.D., Hill D.A. & Mustoe S.H. 2000. Bird census Gavier-Pizarro G. & Kuemmerle T. 2017. The role of soybean techniques, v. 1. San Diego: Academic Press. production as an underlying driver of deforestation in the South Bierregaard-Jr. R.O., Kirwan G.M. & Marks J.S. 2016. Spot-winged American Chaco. Global Environmental Change 45: 24–34. Falconet (Spiziapteryx circumcincta). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Ferreira C.M. & Glock L. 2004. Diagnóstico preliminar sobre a Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.).  Handbook of the avifauna traficada no Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Biociências 12: birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www. 21–30. hbw.com/node/53204 (Access on 08 February 2016). Frenzel D.V.J. 1891. Üebersicht über die in der Provinz Córdoba BirdLife International. 2016. Country profile: Argentina. Available (Argentinien) vorkommenden Vögel. Journal für Ornithologie 39: from http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/countryargentina (Access 113–126. on 09 November 2016) Giraudo L., Kufner M., Torres R., Tamburini D., Briguera V. & Gavier Brewer D. & de Juana E. 2014. Black-backed Grosbeak (Pheucticus G. 2006. Avifauna del bosque chaqueño oriental de la provincia aureoventris). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. de Córdoba, Argentina. Ecología Aplicada 5: 127–136. & de Juana E. (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Holt D.W., Berkley R., Deppe C., Enríquez-Rocha P., Petersen J.L., Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/62183 Rangel-Salazar J.L., Segars K.P., Wood K.L., de Juana E. & Sharpe (Access on 03 August 2015). Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. C.J. 2016. Chaco Owl (Strix chacoensis). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott Nores M. & Yzurieta D. 1975. Sobre aves de la provincia de Córdoba. A., Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.). Handbook of Hornero 11: 312–314. the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www. Nores M. & Yzurieta D. 1979. Aves de costas marinas y de ambientes hbw.com/node/55041 (Access on 08 February 2016). continentales, nuevas para la provincia de Córdoba. Hornero 12: Houston D., Kirwan G.M., Christie D.A. & Sharpe C.J. 2016. 45–52. Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Nores M. & Yzurieta D. 1983. Especiación en las Sierras Pampeanas Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.). Handbook of the de Córdoba y San Luis (Argentina), con descripción de siete nuevas subespecies de aves. Hornero 12: 88–102. birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www. Nores M. 1995. Insular biogeography of birds on mountain-tops in hbw.com/node/52946 (Access on 08 February 2016). north western Argentina. Journal of Biogeography 22: 61–70. Hoyos L.E., Cingolani A.M., Zak M.R., Vaieretti M.V., Gorla D.E. Nores M. 1996. Avifauna de la provincia de Córdoba, p. 255–337. In: & Cabido M.R. 2013. Deforestation and precipitation patterns di Tada I.E. & Bucher E.H. (eds.). Biodiversidad de la provincia de in the arid Chaco Forests of central Argentina. Applied Vegetation Córdoba, v. 1. Río Cuarto: Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto. Science 16: 260–271. Nores M., Yzurieta D. & Miatello R. 1983. Lista y distribución de las Jaramillo A. 2016a. Yellow Cardinal (Gubernatrix cristata). In: del aves de Córdoba. Boletín de la Academia Nacional de Ciencias en Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.). Córdoba 59: 157–196. Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. Nores M., Yzurieta D. & Miatello R.A. 1980. Aves de ambientes http://www.hbw.com/node/62098 (Access on 08 March 2016). acuáticos de Córdoba y centro de Argentina. Córdoba: Secretaría de Jaramillo A. 2016b. Cinnamon Warbling-finch (Poospiza ornata). In: Estado de Agricultura y Ganadería, Dirección de Caza, Pesca, y del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J., Christie D.A. & de Juana E. Actividades Acuáticas. (eds.). Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Nori J., Díaz Gómez J.M. & Leynaud G.C. 2011. Biogeographic Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/62064  (Access on 08 regions of central Argentina based on snake distribution: February 2016). evaluating two different methodological approaches. Journal of Lambertucci S.A., Donázar J.A., Huertas A.D., Jiménez B., Sáez M., Natural History 45: 1005–1020. Sanchez-Zapata J.A. & Hiraldo F. 2011. Widening the problem Nori J., Torres R., Lescano J.N., Cordier J.M., Periago M.E. & Baldo of lead poisoning to a South-American top scavenger: lead D. 2016. Protected areas and spatial conservation priorities concentrations in feathers of wild Andean Condors. Biological for endemic vertebrates of the Gran Chaco, one of the most Conservation 144: 1464–1471. threatened ecoregions of the world. Diversity and Distributions 22: Lammertink M. 2014. Trends in threat status and priorities in 1212–1219. conservation of the woodpeckers of the world. Acta Ornithologica Oksanen J., Blanchet F.G., Kindt R., Legendre P., Minchin P.R., 49: 207–219. O'Hara R.B., Simpson G.L., Solymos P., Stevens M.H.H. & López-Lanús B., Grilli P., Coconier E., Di Giacomo A. & Banchs R. Wagner H. 2007. The vegan package: community ecology package. R 2008. Categorización de las aves de la Argentina según su estado de package version 1.9-25 http://cran.r-project.org/. conservación. Buenos Aires: Informe de Aves Argentinas/AOP y R Core Team. 2012. R: a language and environment for statistical Secretaría de Ambiente y Desarrollo Sustentable. computing. Vienna: R Foundation for Statistical Computing. Luti R., Solís M.A.B., Galera F.M., Ferreira N.M., Berzal M., Nores Remsen-Jr. J.V. 2016a. Cordoba Cinclodes (Cinclodes comechingonus). M., Herrera M.A. & Barrera J.C. 1979. Vegetación, p. 297‒368. In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. & de Juana In: Vázquez J.B., López-Robles A., Sosa D.F. & Sáez M.P. (eds.). E. (eds.). Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Geografía física de la provincia de Córdoba. Buenos Aires: Boldt. Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/56381 (Access on 03 March Maceda J.J. 2007.  Biología y conservación del Águila Coronada 2016). (Harpyhaliaetus coronatus) en Argentina. Hornero 22: 159–171. Remsen-Jr. J.V. 2016b. Olrog's Cinclodes (Cinclodes olrogi). In: Madroño A.N. & Pearman M. 1992. Distribution, status and taxonomy del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J. Christie D.A. & de Juana E. of the near-threatened Black-bodied Woodpecker  Dryocopus (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the world alive. Barcelona: Lynx schulzi. Bird Conservation International 2: 253–271. Editions. http://www.hbw.com/node/56383 (Access on 03 March Masello J.F., Montano V., Quillfeldt P., Nuhlíčková S., Wikelski M. & 2016). Moodley Y. 2015. The interplay of spatial and climatic landscapes Remsen-Jr. J.V., Areta J.I., Cadena C.D., Claramunt S., Jaramillo A., in the genetic distribution of a South American parrot. Journal of Pacheco J.F., Robbins M.B., Stiles F.G., Stotz D.F. & Zimmer K.J. Biogeography 42: 1077–1090. 2015. A classification of the bir d species of South America. American Masello J.F., Quillfeldt P., Munimanda G.K., Klauke N., Segelbacher Ornithologists' Union. http://www.museum.lsu.edu/~Remsen/ G., Schaefer H.M., Failla M., Cortés M. & Moodley Y. 2011. The SACCBaseline.htm. high Andes, gene flow and a stable hybrid zone shape the genetic Richard E., Zapata D.C. & Contreras M.E.R. 2010. Aportes al structure of a wide-ranging South American parrot. Frontiers in conocimiento de las estructuras de tráfico de fauna silvestre Zoology 8: 16. de Argentina. I - Relevamiento preliminar de la información y Mazar-Barnett J. & Pearman M. 2001. Annotated checklist of the birds estructura interna del mercado. Ambiental 9: 197‒214. of Argentina, v. 1. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. Saggese M.D., Quaglia A., Lambertucci S.A., Bó M.S., Sarasola J.H., Miatello R., Cobos V. & Rosacher C. 1994. Algunas especies de aves Pereyra-Lobos R. & Maceda J.J. 2009. Survey of lead toxicosis nuevas o poco conocidas para la provincial de Córdoba, República in free-ranging raptors from central Argentina, p. 223–231. In: Argentina. Historia Natural 8: 1–5. Watson R.T., Fuller M., Pokras M. & Hunt W.G. (eds.). Ingestion Mikusiński G. 2006. Woodpeckers: distribution, conservation, and of lead from spent ammunition: implications for wildlife and humans. research in a global perspective. Annalles Zoologici Fennici 43: Boise: The Peregrine Fund. 86–95. Silvetti F. 2012. Trayectoria histórica de la territorialidad ganadera Narosky T. & Yzurieta D. 1989. Birds of Argentina and Uruguay: a field campesina en el oeste de la provincia de Córdoba, Argentina. guide, v. 1. Buenos Aires: Vazquez Mazzini. Agricultura, Sociedad y Desarrollo 9: 333–367. Nores M. & Cerana M.M. 1990. Biogeography of forest relics in the Stempelmann H. & Schulz F. 1890. Enumeración de las aves de la mountains of northwestern Argentina. Revista Chilena de Historia provincia de Córdoba. Boletín de la Academia Nacional de Ciencias Natural 63: 37–46. en Córdoba 10: 1–18. Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Torres R., Michelutti P., León J., Bruno G. & Cejas W. 2006. Nuevas (Hylatomus schulzii). In: del Hoyo J., Elliott A., Sargatal J., citas y comentarios sobre rapaces en la región central de Argentina Christie D.A. & de Juana E. (eds.).  Handbook of the birds of the (provincias de Catamarca, Córdoba y Santiago del Estero). world alive. Barcelona: Lynx Editions. http://www.hbw.com/ Nuestras Aves 52: 13–16. node/56288 (Access on 08 February 2016). Trejo A., Bó M.S. & Biondi L. 2012. Búhos de Argentina: estado Yzurieta D. 1995. Manual de reconocimiento y evaluación de las aves de conservación y prioridades de investigación. Ornitología de Córdoba. Córdoba: Ministerio de Agricultura, Ganadería y Neotropical 23: 219–226. Recursos Renovables. Vergara-Tabares D.L. 2017. Interacciones entre aves frugívoras nativas Zak M.R. & Cabido M. 2002. Spatial patterns of the Chaco y una planta exótica en el Chaco Serrano: consecuencias para las vegetation of central Argentina: integration of remote sensing and especies involucradas y el proceso de invasión. Ph.D. Thesis. National phytosociology. Applied Vegetation Science 5: 213–226. University of Córdoba. Winkler H. & Christie D.A. 2016. Black-bodied Woodpecker Associate Editor: Gustavo S. Cabanne. APPENDIX I List of bird species recorded at western Sierras Grandes-Comechingones and Traslasierra Valley. We also included the environment type that each species inhabits and the category of conservation. The number of environment represents: 1 - lowland Chaco woodland; 2 - mountain Chaco woodland; 3 - Romerillo shrubland; 4 - mountain grassland; 5 - Polilepys forest; 6 - agricola field; 7 - urbanized area; 8 - stream; 9 - river; and 10 - artificial lake. Status abbreviations: LC - “Least Concern”; EN - “Endangered”; VU - “Vulnerable”, AM - Threatened. A bundance classification: C - Common; U - Uncommon; R - Rare; and A - Accidental. Seasonal presence: Y - Year-round; S - Summer presence; W - Winter presence; and A - Altitudinal movements. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Tinamidae Nothura darwinii Darwin's Nothura 1, 6 LC C Y Nothoprocta cinerascens Brushland Tinamou 1, 2 LC CY Nothoprocta pentlandii Andean Tinamou 2, 3, 4 LC C Y Nothura maculosa Spotted Nothura 1LC C Y Crypturellus tataupa Tataupa Tinamou 1, 2 LC U Y Eudromia elegans Elegant-crested Tinamou 1 VU R Y Podicipedidae Tachybaptus dominicus Least Grebe 10 LC A Y Podiceps major Great Grebe 10 LC C Y Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed Grebe 9, 10 LC C Y Rollandia rolland White-tufted Grebe 9, 10 LC C Y Phalacrocoracidae Phalacrocorax brasilianus Neotropic Cormorant 9, 10 LC C Y Ardeidae Ardea cocoi White-necked Heron 9, 10 LC U Y Ardea alba Great Egret 9, 10 LC C Y Egretta thula Snowy Egret 8, 9 LC C Y Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret 6, 8, 9 LC C Y Syrigma sibilatrix Whistling Heron 6, 8 LC C Y Butorides striata Striated Heron 8, 9 LC U Y Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night-heron 8, 9 LC C Y Ixobrychus involucris Stripe-backed Bittern 9, 10 LC R Y Threskiornithidae Phimosus infuscatus Bare-faced Ibis 9, 10 LC U Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Plegadis chihi White-faced Ibis 9, 10 LC C Y Theristicus caudatus Buff-necked I bis 4, 9 LC U S Cathartidae Vultur gryphus Andean Condor 4VU C Y Cathartes aura Turkey Vultur 1, 2 LC C Y Coragyps atratus Black Vultur 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Anatidae Anas bahamensis White-cheeked Pintail 10 LC C Y Anas georgica Yellow-billed Pintail 8, 9, 10 LC C Y Anas flavirostris Speckled Teal 8, 9, 10 LC C Y Anas platalea Red Shoveler 10 LC C Y Oxyura vittata Lake Duck 9, 10 LC UY Heteronetta atricapilla Black-headed Duck 10 LC R Y Netta peposaca Rosy-billed Pochard 10 LC C Y Accipitridae Geranoaetus melanoleucus Black-chested Buzzard-eagle 2, 3, 4 LC CY Geranoaetus polyosoma Red-backed Hawk 2, 3, 4 LC C Y Geranoaetus albicaudatus White-tailed Hawk 4LC U Y Elanus leucurus White-tailed Kite 1LC U S Buteo magnirostris Roadside Hawk 1, 2 LC C Y Circus buffoni Long-winged Harrier 3, 4 LC C Y Circus cinereus Cinereous Harrier 1, 4 LC C Y Parabuteo unicinctus Bay-winged Hawk 1LC R Y Rostrhamus sociabilis Snail Kite 9, 10 LC C Y Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned Hawk 2LC C Y Accipiter bicolor Bicolored Hawk 1, 2 LC UY Buteogallus coronatus Crowned Eagle 1, 2 EN R Y Falconidae Caracara plancus Southern Crested-caracara 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Milvago chimango Chimango Caracara 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC CY Spiziapterix circumcinctus Spot-winged Falconet 1, 2 VU C Y Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Falco femolaris Aplomado Falcon 1, 6 LC C Y Falco sparverius American Kestrel 1, 2, 6 LC C Y Rallidae Aramides cajaneus Gray-necked Wood-rail 2, 8 LC C Y Pardirallus sanguinolentus Plumbeous Rail 8LC C Y Gallinula galeata Common Gallinule 8, 9 LC C Y Gallinula melanops Spot-flanked Ga llinule 10 LC U Y Fulica armillata Red-gartered Coot 9, 10 LC C Y Fulica leucoptera White-winged Coot 9, 10 LC C Y Fulica rufifrons Red-fronted Coot 9, 10 LC C Y Fulica ardesiaca 10 LC A Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Aramidae Aramus guarauna Limpkin 9, 10 LC U Y Cariamidae Chugna burmeisteri Black-legged Seriema 1, 2 LC U Y Jacanidae Jacana jacana Wattled Jacana 10 LC C Y Recurvirostridae Himantopus mexicanus American Stilt 9, 10 LC C Y Charadriidae Vanellus chilensis Southern Lapwing 4, 6, 7, 9, 10 LC C Y Charadrius collaris Collared Plover 9 LC U Y Scolopacidae Tringa melanoleuca Greater Yellowlegs 9, 10 LC U Y Tringa flaviceps Lesser Yellowlegs 9, 10 LC U Y Calidris bairdii Baird's Sandpiper 10 LC US Gallinago gallinago Common Snipe 3, 4 LC U Y Columbidae Columba livia Rock Pigeon 6, 7 LC C Y Patagioenas picazuro Picazuro Pigeon 1, 2, 6 LC CY Patagioenas maculosa Spot-winged Pigeon 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Zenaida auriculata Eared Dove 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Columbina picui Picui Ground-dove 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Leptotila verreauxi White-tipped Dove 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Psittacidae Thectocercus acuticaudata Blue-crowned Parakeet 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Cyanoliseus patagonus Burrowing Parrot 1, 2 LC U Y Myiopsitta monachus Monk Parakeet 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Psilopsiagon aymara Gray-hooded Parakeet 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 LC C A Amazona aestiva Turquoise-fronted Parrot 1, 2 LC R Y Cuculidae Coccyzus melacoryphus Dark-billed Cuckoo 1, 2 LC U S Guira guira Guira Cuckoo 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Tapera naevia Striped Cuckoo 1, 2, 6 LC C S Tytonidae Tyto alba Barn Owl 1, 2, 6, 7 LC U Y Strigidae Bubo virginianus Great Horned Owl 2, 3, 4 LC U Y Megascops choliba Tropical Screech-owl 1, 2 LC C Y Glaucidium brasilianum Ferruginous Pygmy-owl 1, 2 LC C Y Pseudoscops clamator Striped Owl 1LC R Y Athene cunicularia Burrowing Owl 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Strix chacoensis Chaco Owl 1AM R Y Asio flammeus Short-eared Owl 4, 6 LC U Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Caprimulgidae Systellura longirostris Band-winged Nightjar 1, 2 LC U Y Hydropsalis torquata Scissor-tailed Nightjar 1, 2 LC C Y Setopagis parvula Little Nightjar 1 LC C Y Apodidae Streptoprogne zonaris White-collared Swift 2, 3, 4, 5, LC U Y Aeronautes andecolus Andean Swift 2, 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Trochilidae Heliomaster furcifer Blue-tufted Starthroat 1, 2 LC C Y Sephanoides sephaniodes Green-backed Firecrown 2LC A Chlorostilbon lucidus Glittering-bellied Emerald 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Sappho sparganurus Red-tailed Comet 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 LC C A Alcedinidae Chloroceryle amazona Amazon Kingfisher 8, 9, 10 LC U Y Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher 8, 9, 10 LC U Y Megaceryle torquata Ringed Kingfisher 8, 9, 10 LC C Y Bucconidae Nystalus maculatus Spot-backed Puff bird 1, 2 LC C Y Picidae Colaptes campestris Campo Flicker 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Colaptes melanochloros Green-barred Woodpecker 1, 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Melanerpes cactorum White-fronted Woodpecker 1LC C Y Melanerpes candidus White Woodpecker 1, 2 LC U Y Veniliornis mixtus Checkered Woodpecker 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Picumnus cirratus White-barred Piculet 1, 2 LC U Y Campephilus leucopogon Cream-backed Woodpecker 1, 2, 7 LC UY Dryocopus schulzi Black-bodied Woodpecker 2, 7 AM C Y Furnariidae Geositta rufipennis Rufous-banded Miner 3, 4, 5 LC U Y Upucerthia dumetaria Scale-throated Earthcreeper 1, 2 LC UY Tarphonomus certhioides Chaco Earthcreeper 1, 2 LC C Y Cinclodes atacamensis White-winged Cinclodes 8, 9 LC C A Cinclodes comechingonus Cordoba Cinclodes 8, 9 VU C A Cinclodes fuscus Buff-winged Cinclodes 6, 8, 9 LC C W Cinclodes olrogi Olrog's Cinclodes 8, 9 VU C A Furnarius rufus RufousHornero 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Furnarius cristatus Crested Hornero 1, 6 LC C Y Coryphistera alaudina Lark-like Brushrunner 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Phleocryptes melanops Wren-like Rushbird 9, 10 LC U Y Cranioleuca pyrrophia Stripe-crowned Spinetail 1, 2 LC CY Asthenes baeri Short-billed Canastero 1, 2 LC C Y Asthenes pyrrholeuca Sharp-billed Canastero 1, 2 LC U Y Asthenes modesta Cordilleran Canastero 3, 4 LC C Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Asthenes sclateri Puna Canastero 3, 4 LC C Y Anumbius annumbi Firewood-gathered 1, 6 LC C Y Synallaxis frontalis Sooty-fronted Spinetail 1, 2 LC C Y Synallaxis albescens Pale-breasted Spinetail 1, 2 LC C Y Leptasthenura platensis Tufted Tit-spinetail 1, 2 LC C Y Leptasthenura fuliginiceps Brown-capped Tit-spinetail 2, 4, 5 LC U Y Pseudoseisura lophotes Brown Cacholote 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC CY Lepidocolaptes angustirostris Narrow-billed Woodcreeper 1, 2 LC C Y Drymornis bridgesii Scimitar-billed Woodcreeper 1, 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Thamnophilidae Thamnophilus caerulescens Variable Antshrike 1, 2 LC CY Taraba major Great Antshrike 1, 2 LC R Y Rhinocryptidae Rhinocrypta lanceolata Crested Gallito 1, 2 LC U Y Melanopareiidae Melanopareia maximiliani Olive-crowned Crescentchest 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Tyrannidae Southern Beardless- Campostoma obsoletum 1, 2, 7 LC C Y tyrannulent Myiophobus fasciatus Bran-colored Flycatcher 1, 2 LC C S Hemitriccus margaritaceiventer Pearly-vented Tody-tyrant 1, 2 LC C Y Elaenia albiceps White-crested Elaenia 1, 2 LC U S Elaenia parvirostris Small-billed Elaenia 1, 2 LC C S Sublegatus modestus Southern Scrub-fly catcher 1, 2 LC UY Suiriri suiriri Suiriri Flycatcher 1, 2 LC C Y Lessonia rufa Rufous-backed Negrito 8, 9 LC U W Serpophaga nigricans Sooty Tyrannulet 9, 10 LC U Y Serpophaga subcristata White-crested Tyrannulet 1, 2 LC C Y Serpophaga munda White-bellied Tyranulet 1, 2 LC C Y Pyrocephalus rubinus Vermilion Flycatcher 1, 6 LC C S Euscarthmus meloryphus Tawny-crowned Pygmy-tyrant 1, 2 LC C Y Anairetes flavirostris Yellow-billed Tit-tyrant 2LC C Y Anairetes parulus Tufted Tit-tyrant 2, 5 LC U A Stigmatura budytoides Greater Wagtail-tyrant 1, 2 LC CY Myiodynastes maculatus Streaked Flycatcher 2LC C S Pitangus sulphuratus Great Kiskadee 1, 6, 7 LC C Y Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C S Machetornis rixosa Cattle Tyrant 1, 6, 7 LC C Y Myiarchus tyrannulus Brown-crested Flycatcher 1, 2 LC R S Myiarchus swainsoni Swainson's Flycatcher LC C S Hirundinea ferruginea Cliff F lycatcher 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Knipolegus aterrinus White-winged Black-tyrant 1LC U S Knipolegus striaticeps Cinereous Tyrant 1LC U S Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Hymenops perspicillatus Spectacled Tyrant 1, 3, 4 LC CY Empidonomus Crowned Slaty-fly catcher 1, 2, 7 LC C S aurantioatrocristatus Tyrannus savana Fork-tailed Flycatcher 1, 7 LC C S Xolmis coronatus Black-crowned Monjita 1LC U W Xolmis irupero White Monjita 1, 6 LC C Y Agriornis micropterus Gray-bellied Shrike-tyrant 1, 2, 3, LC U W Agriornis murinus Lesser Shrike-tyrant 1, 6 LC U W Agriornis montanus Black-billed Shrike-tyrant 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Muscisaxicola rufivertex Rufous-naped Ground-tyrant 3, 4 LC C Y Muscisaxicola maclovianus Dark-faced Ground-tyrant 6 LC U W Tityridae Pachyramphus validus Crested Becard 2LC U S Pachyramphus polychopterus White-winged Becard 2LC U S Cotingidae Phytotoma rutila White-tipped Plantcutter 1, 3, 6 LC C Y Vireonidae Vireo olivaceus Red-eye Vireo 1, 2 LC C S Cyclarhis gujanensis Rufous-browed Peppershrike 1, 2 LC C Y Hirundinidae Progne elegans Southern Martin 2, 3, 6 LC C S Progne tapera Brown-chested Martin 2, 3 LC C S Tachycineta leucorrhoa White-rumped Swallow 1, 2, 7 LC C S Tachycineta leucopyga Chilean Swallow 1LC C W Pygochelidon cyanoleuca Blue-and-White Swallow 1, 2 LC C Y Troglodytidae Troglodytes aedon House Wren 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Cistothorus platensis Grass Wren 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Polioptilidae Polioptila dumicola Masked Gnatcatcher 1, 2, 3 LC C Y Turdidae Catharus ustulatus Swainson's Thrush 1, 2 LC R S Turdus amaurochalinus Creamy-bellied Thrush 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Turdus rufiventris Rufous-bellied Thrush 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 LC C Y Turdus nigriceps Slaty Thrush 2LC U Y 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Turdus chiguanco Chiguanco Thrush LC C Y 6, 7 Mimidae Mimus triurus White-banded Mockingbird 1, 6 LC C W Mimus patagonicus Patagonian Mockingbird 1LC U W Mimus saturninus Chalk-browed Mockingbird 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Motacillidae Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Anthus furcatus Short-billed Pipit 3, 5 LC U Y Anthus lutescens Yellowwish Pipit 3LC U Y Anthus hellmayri Hellmayr's Pipit 3 LC C Y Parulidae Parula pitiayumi Tropical Parula 1LC U Y Geothlypis aequinoctialis Masked Yellothroat 1, 2 LC C Y Myioborus brunniceps Brown-capped Redstart 3, 4, 5 LC C A Thraupidae Pipraeidea bonariensis Blue-and-yellow Tanager 1, 2, 3, 7 LC C Y Thraupis sayaca Sayaca Tanager 1LC C Y Phrygilus alaudinus Band-tailed Sierra-finch 3, 4 LC C Y Phrygilus unicolor Plumbeous Sierra-finch 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Phrygilus carbonarius Carbonated Sierra-finch 1, 2 LC R W Phrygilus plebejus Ash-breasted Sierra-finch 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Sicalis flaveola Saffron Yellow-finch 1, 6, 7 LC CY Sicalis luteola Grassland Yellow-finch 1, 6 LC C Y Saltraticula multicolor Many-colored Chaco-finch 1LC C Y Poospiza ornata Cinnamon Warbling-finch 1VU C W Poospiza hypochondria Rufous-sided Warbling-finch 3, 5 LC U Y Black-and-rufous Warbling- Poospiza nigrorufa 1, 2 LC C Y finch Poospiza torquata Ringed Warbling-finch 1LC C Y Poospiza melanoleuca Black-capped Warbling-finch 1, 2 LC C Y Lophospingus pusillus Black-crested Finch 1LC U Y Gubernatrix cristata Yellow Cardinal 1, 2 EN R Paroaria coronata Red-crested Cardinal 1LC UY Coryphospingus cucullatus Red-crested Finch 1LC U Y Sporophila caerulescens Double-collared Seedeater 1, 2 LC C S Catamenia analis Band-tailed Seedeater 2, 3, 4 LC C Y Catamenia inornata Plain-colored Seedeater 3, 4, 5 LC C Y Diuca diuca Common Diuca-finch 1LC C S Embernagra platensis Great Pampa-finch 1, 3 LC C Y Saltator aurantiirostris Golden-billed Saltator 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 LC C Y Emberizidae 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, Zonotrichia capensis Rufous-collared Sparrow LC C Y 6, 7 Rhynchospiza strigiceps Stripe-capped Sparrow 1LC C Y Ammodramus humeralis Grassland Sparrow 1, 3 LC C Y Cardinalidae Pheucticus aureoventris Black-backed Grosbeak 2, 3, 5 LC U S Piranga flava Hepatic Tanager 1, 2 LC C Y Cyanocompsa brissonii Ultramarine Grosbeak 1, 2 LC U Y Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018 Bird assemblages and conservation in central Argentina Vergara-Tabares et al. Seasonal Taxon English Name Environment Status Abundance Presence Icteridae Icterus cayanensis Epaulet Oriole 1, 2, 7 LC C Y Molothrus rufoaxillaris Screaming Cowbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Molothrus bonariensis Shiny Cowbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Agelaioides badius Bay-winged Cowbird 1, 2, 6, 7 LC C Y Sturnella loyca Long-tailed Meadowlark 3, 4 LC C Y Sturnella superciliaris White-browed Blackbird 1, 6 LC C Y Fringillidae Euphonia chlorotica Purple-throated Euphonia 1, 2 LC U Y Sporagra magellanica Hooded Siskin 1, 3, 4, 6, 7 LC C Y Passeridae Passer domesticus House Sparrow 6, 7 LC C Y APPENDIX II Bird species predicted to occur at our study area and including probable habitat (see references in Appendix I). It includes species known from nearby areas, based on Nores (1996) and unpublished data. Species English name Environment Annas cyanoptera Cinnamon Teal 10 Buteo swainsoni Swainson's Hawk 1, 6 Pandion haliaetus Osprey 10 Cariama cristata Red-legged Seriema 1 Nyctibius griseus Common Potoo 1 Chordeiles minor Common Nighthawk 1 Chaetura meridionalis Sick's Swift 1 Upucerthia validirostris Buff-breasted Earthcreeper 4 Leptasthenura aegithaloides Tufted Tit-Spinetail 1 Phacellodomus sibilatrix Little Thornbir d 1 Lathrotriccus euleri Euler's Flycatcher 1 Pseudocolopteryx acutipennis Subtropical Doradito 3, 4 Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris Warbling Doradito 9, 10 Tachuris rubrigastra Many-colored Rush-tyrant 9, 10 Knipolegus hudsoni Hudson's Black-tyrant 1, 6 Muscisaxicola capistratus Cinnamon-bellied Ground-tyrant 4, 6 Phrygilus gayi Gray-hooded Sierra-Finch 1, 3, 4 Revista Brasileira de Ornitologia 26(2): 2018

Journal

Ornithology Research – Springer Journals

Published: Jun 1, 2018

Keywords: altitudinal gradient; bird diversity; endemic birds; environmental heterogeneity; IBAs; threatened birds

There are no references for this article.