Birds of Pernambuco: Current state of ornithological knowledge

• Main Authors: Gilmar Beserra de Farias, Glauco Alves Pereira
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina 2009-09-01
• Series: Biotemas
• Subjects: Atlantic Forest; birds; Caatinga; Pernambuco; protected areas
• Online Access: http://www.biotemas.ufsc.br/volumes/pdf/volume223/1a10.pdf

An analysis of the present state of ornithological knowledge is required for the guidance of researchers in their future investigations. This work provides a survey of literature describing the development of ornithological research in the state. Between 1880 and 2008, many lists were organized, which contributed towards the systematization of the knowledge about Pernambuco’s birds. Out if the 535 species recorded, 49 are found in marine environments or wetlands, 450 occur in the Atlantic Rainforest, and 270 reside in the semi-arid Caatinga. We suggest that studies on the birds of the Caatinga are most important and should be prioritized at present, in addition to effective actions for the conservation of endemic species and of species under risk of extinction.