Breeding biology and conservation of the Marsh Seedeater Sporophila palustris

BUGONI JV; ARETA JI; DI GIACOMO AG; DI GIACOMO AS; JACOBS F; AFONSO MAC; DIAS RA

BIRD CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL

CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESS

Lugar: Cambridge; Año: 2013 vol. 23 p. 147 - 158

0959-2709

The Marsh Seedeater Sporophila palustris is one of the most endangered and least known ofthe 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 describenests and eggs, behaviour (including courtship, nesting, incubation and parental care), breedingsites and food items. Marsh Seedeaters breed in well-preserved grasslands with wet soils and tallvegetation. In general, these habitats are used for extensive livestock ranching. Main threats areovergrazing, widespread use of fire, conversion of grasslands to pastures of exotic grasses and ricefields, 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 promotethe conservation of Marsh Seedeaters and other endangered birds that coexist in grassland habitats.