Sections

Latin American and Caribbean Program

Project Stats
Observations 5,286
Locations 239
Taxa 107
Date Range Jan 2000
to Jun 2007
 

Data Owner

Ducks Unlimited (DU)

Data Access: Level 4

Metadata download: sgml  html  txt

Abstract

One of the most urgent needs for the conservation of habitats critical to migratory waterbirds in Latin America and the Caribbean is the collection of sound information about the numbers and species of birds using particular wetlands. Ducks Unlimited (DU), in collaboration with more than 300 colleagues from thirteen different countries in the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America, gathered data on distribution and numbers of waterbirds between 1999-2007, with an initial emphasis on waterfowl (Family: Anatidae). DU provided training, worked towards common standards and methodologies, and aimed at expanding the number of wetlands and countries included in the surveys. The information gained from these surveys has helped identify some very important wetlands for waterbirds and has led to increased conservation efforts and awareness for both wetlands and waterbirds within the region.

Purpose

DU's Waterbird Surveys Initiative was motivated by an interest in learning more about where waterbirds occur n Latin America and the Caribbean, and where wetland landscape conservation programs should be directed. These included designation of new Ramsar sites, establishment of protected areas, and management needs.

The importance of regional efforts to gather data in a synchronized and standardized way, and the importance of sharing all information, was highlighted throughout the initiative.

Supplemental Information

The official dates for surveys chosen for the regional surveys were: - 2nd w-e in October (southern migration) - 4th w-e in January (wintering sites) - 4th w-e in March and/or 4th w-e in April (northern migration)

The data will be updated following two additional survey periods with funding from Ducks Unlimited - October 2007 and January 2008, covering Belize, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.. We are not yet certain if there will be future additions to the data directly by colleagues in Caribbean, Central American, and northern South American countries.

Contact

Montserrat Carbonell: llenobracm@gmail.com
Ken Kriese: PatoNeotropical@gmail.com