Breeding biology and conservation of the Marsh Seedeater Sporophila palustris

• Autores: Vizentin-Bugoni, J.; Areta, J.I.; Di Giacomo, A.G.; Di Giacomo, A.S.; Jacobs, F.; Afonso Coimbra, M.A.; Dias, R.A.
• Año de publicación: 2013
• Idioma: inglés
• Tipo de recurso: artículo
• Fuente: Bird Conserv. Int. 2013;23(2):147-158
• Materia: breeding population; breeding site; endangered species; grassland; habitat conservation; passerine; reproductive biology; species conservation; Argentina; Brazil; Uruguay; Aves; Poaceae; Sporophila; Sporophila palustris
• Institución: Universidad Nacional de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales

The Marsh Seedeater Sporophila palustris is one of the most endangered and least known of the capuchino seedeaters. Breeding populations are patchy, occurring in north-east Argentina, southern Brazil, and Uruguay. We present data on the breeding biology of the species, and describe nests and eggs, behaviour (including courtship, nesting, incubation and parental care), breeding sites and food items. Marsh Seedeaters breed in well-preserved grasslands with wet soils and tall vegetation. In general, these habitats are used for extensive livestock ranching. Main threats are overgrazing, widespread use of fire, conversion of grasslands to pastures of exotic grasses and rice fields, afforestation, and illegal trapping. Most breeding sites are located in Important Bird Areas, but only one in Brazil and one in Argentina are protected. We propose a series of actions to promote the conservation of Marsh Seedeaters and other endangered birds that coexist in grassland habitats. Copyright © BirdLife International 2013 Â.
Fil:Di Giacomo, A.S. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales; Argentina.