Population density of tinamous and cracids (Tinamidae and Cracidae) at Laguna Lachúa National Park (Alta Verapaz, Guatemala)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54495/Rev.Cientifica.v32i2.408Keywords:
estimation, random encounter models, daily range, Key Biodiversity Areas, Northern Transversal StripAbstract
Population density of animals that are endangered or subject to hunting pressure, is a key parameter for evaluating and adapting conservation strategies. This variable is rarely
Densidad poblacional de mancololas (Tinamidae) y crácidos (Cracidae) en el Parque Nacional Laguna Lachúa (Alta Verapaz, Guatemala) Population density of tinamous and cracids (Tinamidae and Cracidae) at Laguna Lachúa National Park (Alta Verapaz, Guatemala) available, especially for inconspicuous species, with elusive habits or prone to fleeing. The two objectives of this research are: to propose a methodology for estimating the population density of tinamous and cracids from camera trap records, and to present the results of implementing this methodology with data from Laguna Lachúa National Park. This park is the most important natural ecosystems remant in an agricultural
transformation. Various species of the tinamous and cracids distributed in the park, considered endangered species, possibly pressured by hunting, and with cryptic habits. The most relevant coefficients were selected to calculate the
estimated daily range of each species, and then used in random encounter models. The estimated population densities were (ind/km²): Tinamus major, 7.460; Crypturellus boucardi, 4.231; C. soui, 3.119; Crax rubra, 2.972; Ortalis vetula, 0.400; Penelope purpurascens, 0.164. Results are similar to those found in populations of other related species, and confirm the value of the park as habitat for extinction-threatened birds, and as the largest remaining natural ecosystem in the region. It is recommended to use this methodology for future comparisons, and to invest public funding in research on sustainability and biological diversity management.
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