Distribution patterns of forest birds in the Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve: A scientific baseline for planning sustainable Birdwatching

Abstract

The Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve is located in one of the most pristine areas on the planet. Its forest birds, some of them charismatic species, are one of the focus interests for both tourists and the local community. However, basic aspects of bird distribution in these ecosystems are still poorly understood. In this study, we characterized the distribution patterns of forest birds in the Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve. We distinguish four patterns, classifying bird species according to variations in geographic and temporal distribution within the reserve. We observed variations in the distribution of resident and migratory species related to the type of forest vegetation. We found that mixed forests of Nothofagus betuloides and N. pumilio are important for the presence of several low abundance species, including the Magellanic Woodpecker (Campephilus magellanicus). These results allow us to identify priority areas for the conservation of the forest bird community of the Magellanic ecoregion. Additionally, they highlight Isla Navarino as the area with the highest diversity of forest species, and is easily accessible, in the Cape Horn Biosphere Reserve.