Birds of prey (Accipitriformes and Falconiformes) of Serra de Itabaiana National Park, northeastern Brazil.

Abstract

Birds of prey are important for maintaining ecosystems, since they can regulate the populations of vertebrates and invertebrates. However, anthropic activities, like habitat fragmentation, have been decreasing the number of birds of prey, affecting the habitat ecological relations and, decreasing biodiversity. Our objective was to evaluate species of birds of prey (Accipitriformes and Falconiformes) in a protected area of the Atlantic forest in northeastern Brazil. The area was sampled for 17 months using fixed points and walking along a pre-existing trail. Birds of prey were classified by their Punctual Abundance Index, threat status and forest dependence. Sixteen birds of prey were recorded, being the most common Rupornis magnirostris and Caracara plancus. Most species were considered rare in the area and not dependent of forest vegetation. None of the registered species were threatened with extinction. Our results showed that the studied area presents a considerable diversity of birds of prey, including species sensitive to environmental changes. Thus, it is important to protect this area to increase the availability of feeding and nesting areas for birds of prey.