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Biodiversity and biogeography of birds in Pacific Mexico along an isolation gradient from mainland Chamela via coastal Marias to oceanic Revillagigedo Islands

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Following an isolation gradient in West-Mexico the avifauna of three study areas is investigated, on mainland reserve and two island groups. The avifaunas are described and analysed regarding species richness, environmental attributes, ende-mism, broader ecological niches, and brood status. The taxonomical composition is determined on different hierarchy levels. Most species records come from mainland Chamela (262), followed by the coastal Marias (191) and the oceanic Revilla-gigedos (148). Thereof 139 bird species breed in Chamela, 61 on Marias and only 29 on the Revillagigedos. In total, in the three study areas 364 species were recorded, which belong to 22 orders. On island groups generally less taxa per hierarchy level are present than on the mainland, especially on the remote Revillagigedos. Here, on average 1.7 species are found per genus, 2.2 genera per family, and 2.5 families per order. In the analysis of the taxonomical hierarchy relations to each other an isolation gradient is identified: from mainland Chamela via the coastal Marias to the oceanic Revillagigedos the degree of relatedness decreases on average. The results support the theoretical hypothesis that on islands closely related taxa tend to exclude each other and that one generalist tends to replace several specialists. Small ecological niches are often not occupied by specialist species on islands, but are used by generalists.
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123
© Museum für Tierkunde Dresden, ISSN 1864-5755, 20.04.2012
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123 – 144
Vertebrate Zoology
Biodiversity and biogeography of birds in Pacific Mexico along an
isolation gradient from mainland Chamela via coastal Marias to
oceanic Revillagigedo Islands
Ingo J. HaHn
1, 2, Steffen Hogeback
1, 2, Uwe RömeR
3
& Pablo m. VeRgaRa
4
1 Institute of Landscape Ecology, Biogeography Research Group, University of Münster,
Robert-Koch-Str. 28, 48149 Münster, Germany.
ingo.hahn(at)uni-muenster.de (corresponding author).
2 Estacion de Biologia en Chamela, National Autonomic University of Mexico (UNAM), Jalisco, Mexico.
3 Institute of Biogeography, University of Trier, 54296 Trier, Germany.
4 Dep. of Ecology, Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, P.O. Box 114–D, Alameda 340, Santiago, Chile.
Accepted on September 13, 2011.
Published online at www.vertebrate-zoology.de on April 05, 2012.
> Abstract
Following an isolation gradient in West-Mexico the avifauna of three study areas is investigated, on mainland reserve and
two island groups. The avifaunas are described and analysed regarding species richness, environmental attributes, ende-
mism, broader ecological niches, and brood status. The taxonomical composition is determined on different hierarchy levels.
Most species records come from mainland Chamela (262), followed by the coastal Marias (191) and the oceanic Revilla-
gigedos (148). Thereof 139 bird species breed in Chamela, 61 on Marias and only 29 on the Revillagigedos. In total, in the
three study areas 364 species were recorded, which belong to 22 orders. On island groups generally less taxa per hierarchy
level are present than on the mainland, especially on the remote Revillagigedos. Here, on average 1.7 species are found per
genus, 2.2 genera per family, and 2.5 families per order. In the analysis of the taxonomical hierarchy relations to each other
an isolation gradient is identied: from mainland Chamela via the coastal Marias to the oceanic Revillagigedos the degree
of relatedness decreases on average. The results support the theoretical hypothesis that on islands closely related taxa tend to
exclude each other and that one generalist tends to replace several specialists. Small ecological niches are often not occupied
by specialist species on islands, but are used by generalists.
> Kurzfassung
Entlang eines Isolationsgradienten in Westmexiko wird die Avifauna von drei Gebieten untersucht, einem Festlandreservat
und zwei Inselgruppen. Die Avifaunen werden hinsichtlich Artenreichtum, Lebensräumen, Endemismus, grober ökologis-
cher Nischen und Brutstatus beschrieben und analysiert. Die taxonomische Komposition wird auf unterschiedlichen Hierar-
chieebenen bestimmt. Die meisten Artnachweise kommen von festländischen Chamela (262), gefolgt von den Küsteninseln
Marias (191) und den ozeanischen Revillagigedos (148). Davon brüten 139 Vogelarten in Chamela, 61 auf den Marias und
nur 29 auf den Revillagigedos. Insgesamt wurden in den drei Gebieten zusammen 364 Vogelarten nachgewiesen, die zu 22
Ordnungen gehören. Auf den Inselgruppen sind durchweg weniger Taxa jeder Hierarchieebene vertreten als am Festland,
besonders auf den abgelegenen Revillagigedos. Hier kommen im arithmetischen Mittel 1,7 Arten je Gattung, 2,2 Gattungen
je Familie und 2,5 Familien je Ordnung vor. In der Analyse der taxonomischen Hierarchieverhältnisse zueinander zeigt sich
ein deutlicher Isolationsgradient: vom festländischen Chamela über die die Küsteninseln Marias zu den ozeanischen Revil-
lagigedos nimmt der Verwandtschaftsgrad durchschnittlich ab. Die Ergebnisse stützen die theoretische Annahme, dass nah
verwandte Taxa dazu tendieren sich auf Inseln gegenseitig auszuschließen und dass ein Generalist dazu tendiert mehrere
Spezialisten zu ersetzen. Schmale ökologische Nischen werden auf Inseln häug nicht durch spezialisierte Arten besetzt,
sondern durch Generalisten erschlossen.
> Key words
Species richness, biodiversity, island biogeography, island theory, endemics, endangered species, conservation, Isla Isabel,
Marias, Revillagigedo, Socorro, Mexican Pacic.
HaHn et al.: Biogeography of Mexican Pacific island birds
124
Introduction
A great proportion of the global biodiversity is hosted
by islands, although these cover only about 2 % of the
terrestrial surface of the earth. For example, 14 % of all
terrestrial mammal species are found on them (Alcover
et al., 1998), and 17 % of all bird species occur only
on islands (WhittAker & Fernández-PAlAcios, 2007;
comp. clements, 2000; dickinson, 2003). Because of
their ability to y, birds were able to reach nearly any
island, to colonise it and evolve there. Therefore birds
are highly suitable as study objects, especially to ana-
lyse the species richness on islands.
The geographical isolation of islands, mainly char-
acterised by size and distance to other land masses,
is considered as a main factor for species richness
(mAcArthur & Wilson, 1967; cArlquist, 1974;
WAlter, 1998; WhittAker & Fernández-PAlAcios,
2007; etc.). In course of time, in isolation great num-
bers of endemic bird species evolved on islands (e.g.
moors, 1985; Johnson & stAttersField, 1990; GrAnt,
1998), and through adaptive radiation often increased
the total species richness. As a result of their small
distribution area and their specic life conditions, en-
demic island birds are highly sensitive against envi-
ronmental changes (stAttersField & cAPPer, 2000).
These changes are often caused directly or indirectly
by man. Thus, in this sense many of these endemic
species are indicators for the degree of nativity and/or
change of an island ecosystem (comp. WeGe & lonG,
1995; stAttersField et al., 1998).
In the Mexican Pacic birds take a key position in
the ecosystem of the oceanic Revillagigedo Islands
(Jehl & PArkes, 1982). The latter belong to the few
islands and places in general, which remained entirely
untouched by mankind until the discovery of Spanish
sailors in the 16th century. The Polynesians in the West
did not reach further than Easter Island and Hawaii.
The American natives in the East stayed on the con-
tinent and some coastal islands. The late discovery is
one reason for only limited anthropogenic shaping of
the environment. In several regions of these islands na-
tive habitat lasted out (cAstellAnos & rodriGuez-es-
trellA, 1993; mArtínez-Gómez & curry, 1998; mAr-
nez-Gómez et al., 2001; BArBer et al., 2004) and few
endemics yet have become extinct, contrasting the situ-
ation in central Polynesia (e.g. steAdmAn, 1989; 1995).
Thus, on these archipelagos it can be investigated how
island bird populations develop, under natural-near as
well as under man-made habitat conditions.
The avifauna of the Revillagigedo Islands is poor-
ly known in general. A number of species accounts
have been published (Anthony, 1898; BrAttstrom &
hoWell, 1956; Jehl & PArkes, 1982; sAntAellA &
sAdA, 1991; WehtJe et al., 1993; hoWell & WeBB,
1995; rodiGuez-estrellA et al., 1996); they are valu-
able but deal only with a limited part of the total spec-
trum of species. Then Fox quesAdA et al. (2004) gave
a rst overview based on more comprehensive eld
surveys. The coastal Marias island group is avifaunis-
tically even less known (edWArds, 1998; hoWell &
WeBB, 1995; sAntos del PrAdo GAscA et al., 2006;
cAlderón hinoJosA et al., 2008); it is highly suitable
for a biogeographical comparison with Revillagigedo
because of its intermediate position just between the
mainland and the high sea. Beginning in 2009 and
continuing to 2010, own investigations have yielded
a wealth of new avifaunal data from own eld surveys
and rarely known Mexican reports.
Based on the distribution pattern and selected
study areas, it will be possible to investigate the ef-
fects upon island landbirds, specically on their bio-
geographical characteristics, environments, and eco-
logical characteristics in different degrees of isolation.
Suitable as study areas are the oceanic Revillagigedo,
the coastal Marias Islands, and the mainland nature re-
serve Chamela in the Mexican Pacic. This gradient
of increasing isolation (longer distance to other land-
masses/populations) represents a unique geographical
constellation, and in the following is named “isolation
gradient”.
This survey aims to accomplish three principal
goals. Firstly, it wants analyse the environmental at-
tributes of all three study areas, and to make a com-
parison of all recorded species, breeders only, and en-
demics according to their spatial relations. Secondly,
it wants to present an ecological approach to the avi-
fauna of all three study areas. Species richness shall
be given according to the three ecological groups of
landbirds, freshwater birds and seabirds as well as ac-
cording to their breeding status, basing on own eld
observations as well as data sources from references.
Thirdly, the taxonomic composition of the avifauna
shall be analysed in order to know which bird species,
genera, families, and orders are present in the insular
and mainland study areas, and in which proportion.
Thus, generally we aim to identify the effect of iso-
lation on bird species richness by investigating these
three topics along a natural gradient including several
endemic bird areas.
Study area and biogeographical back-
ground
For this work three different study areas are part of
one terrestrial region and two marine regions. The ter-
restrial Chamela is located in a sub-humid, tropic area
with a highly seasonal annual precipitation of 731 mm
and an average temperature of 22.1 °C. The range of
altitudes is from 10 m to 580 m including numerous
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lands, respectively (e.g. mirAndA, 1960; villAreAl,
1972).
Data collection and evaluation
For being able to compare the study sites’ avifaunal
composition, occurring bird taxa are pooled in four
lists representing mainland Chamela, Isabel Island,
Marias Islands, and Revillagigedo Islands. Species
lists are generated from a detailed, local literature sur-
vey (partly unpublished references; App. I-IV), and
own additional eldwork (App. I & IV). Own eld
data were collected in February and March of the
years 2009 and 2010 in Chamela and Isabel Island.
The reference sources, especially the grey Spanish
reports, are indeed an important basis of the result
chapter. Taxonomical classication in the attached
species lists of recorded birds (appendices I-IV) is
based on hoWell & WeBB (1995), and dickinson
(2003). Species in the lists were classied as breed-
ers or non-breeders, and are additionally assigned to
the single islands of the Marias and Revillagigedo
groups. Endemic and extinct species were separately
indicated. For comparison between the study areas,
total numbers were summarised in order to calculate
the ratios between recorded bird species, genera and
family. Thus, ratios for hierarchical taxa relations were
calculated by building average values from the total
sums: R = ∑ S a + b + c / G A + B, where R is the ratio, S is
the species (a + b + c total number), and G the genera (A + B
total number) of a certain study area (comp. Table 3).
Results
In regard to bird numbers, the same tendency and a
similar relation between mainland and island study ar-
eas is detected (Table 1). Bird species are more than
eight times more abundant on the mainland, taking
only breeding species into account even more than 16
times. Analysing the numbers of endemic bird taxa (on
species and subspecies level), the situation appears to
be different. In mainland Chamela no endemic taxon
exists, as all breeding species also occur in other regions
of Jalisco and/or Mexico. Contrarily, coastal Marias
and oceanic Revillagigedo islands host 15 and 13 en-
demics, respectively. During the past centuries two en-
demics became extinct on Revillagigedo: the Socorro
Elf Owl Micrathene whitneyi graysoni ridGeWAy,
1886 by human impact and the San Benedicto Rock
Wren Salpinctes obsoletus exsul ridGWAy, 1903 by a
natural eruption of a volcano. Taking the size of study
areas into account, an endemism gradient is found
plateaus and hills with steep hillsides. Most of the area
has an altitude of not more than 150 m and is cov-
ered by over 1,100 different plant species (Estacion
Chamela).
The group of costal Marias Islands has an average
distance of about 100 km to the mainland and consists
of four islands located in-line. The archipelago pro-
vides a surface area of more than 24,000 ha of which
Isla Maria Madre covers more than the half. Not only
this is the largest of the four islands but it also holds
the highest elevation of this archipelago (640 m above
sea level). Second largest is Maria Magdalena, fol-
lowed by Maria Cleofas, and San Juanito. Climate
conditions are similar to the mainland but there is less
precipitation (564.2 mm) and a higher average tem-
perature (24.9 °C) (cAlderon hinoJosA et al., 2008).
The islands are covered by various types of vegeta-
tion composed by 387 plant species. On the different
islands these plants are forming tropical deciduous
and (tropical) sub-deciduous forests, with trees up to
a height of 25 m. Furthermore shrubs, mangroves and
cacti form other parts of the island vegetation.
Revillagigedo is an archipelago which closest part
to the mainland is located about 550 km off the west
coast of Mexico. This archipelago consists, in de-
creasing order of size, of Isla Socorro, Isla Clarion,
San Benedicto, and Roca Partida. 21 °C is the aver-
age annual temperature joined by a precipitation of
313.8 mm at sea-level, which creates a dry climate in
this study area. The type of vegetation on these islands
ranges from open grassland areas to small trees and
shrubs with a maximum height of 3 meters (WehtJe
et al., 1993). Recent volcanic activity inuenced San
Benedicto in the year 1953, and erased the population
of the endemic Rock wren Salpinctes obsoletus exsul
ridGWAy, 1903 (BrAttstrom, 1990).
The single and small Isla Isabel (0.82 km2) is lo-
cated 30 km off the Mexican coast, about one third on
the way to Marias Islands (sAntos del PrAdo GAscA
et al., 2005). We have surveyed this island and its avi-
fauna for ten days in 2010 (Appendix IV). However,
because of the small area and the lack of other islands,
it is not suitable for a direct comparison to the avifau-
nas of Marias and Revillagigedo archipelagos.
On the one hand the mainland study area, Chamela
Reserve, covers a much smaller area than both island
groups. This means that also the number of bird habi-
tats is likely to be smaller. The lower maximum eleva-
tion of mainland Chamela of only 580 m a.s.l. repre-
sents another factor for a reduced bird (habitat) diver-
sity compared to both archipelagos. On the other hand
mainland Chamela shows a much better connectivity
to other bird regions, being not isolated by water, and
hosting a much higher number of plant species than
both island groups. Mainland Chamela hosts more
than 20 times more plant species per area than the is-
HaHn et al.: Biogeography of Mexican Pacific island birds
126
via coastal Marias to oceanic Revillagigedo islands
following the isolation gradient (Table 2).
Amongst all recorded species, landbirds are very
numerous in all three study areas (Fig. 1). However,
their proportion on the entire avifauna decreases from
mainland Chamela (71 %) via coastal Marias (68%)
to oceanic Revillagigedo (45%). Species richness
gradient is contrary in seabirds, as their proportion
increases from mainland Chamela (21%) via coastal
Marias (23%) to oceanic Revillagigedo (45%). Thus,
in the Mexican Pacic only about half of the avifauna
of oceanic islands is presented by landbirds, as sea-
bird species become more numerous. The last group,
freshwater bird species, are similarly rare in all three
study areas: mainland Chamela (8%), Marias (9%),
and Revillagigedo (10%).
The two contrary gradients for landbirds and sea-
birds are also present if taking only the breeding spe-
cies into account. According to landbirds, 119 species
regularly breed in mainland Chamela (representing
86% of this study area’s total breeding avifauna), 54
on the coastal Marias (89%), and 16 on the oceanic
Revillagigedo (55%). Thus, landbirds take an over-
whelming part in the avifaunas of mainland and coast-
al islands, both in regard to breeders as well as non
breeders. However, freshwater birds seem to be non-
breeding guests on the islands (except for one species,
respectively) and mainly breed on the mainland.
The mean number of all recorded bird species
per genus is not highly different between the three
study areas (ranging from 1.53 to 1.72; comp. Table
3). However, analysing the higher taxonomic hierar-
chies, this gradient is found for four constellations:
more species per family (5.6 < 4.7 < 3.7), more gen-
era per family (3.6 < 2.8 < 2.2), more species per or-
der (13.1 < 10.6 < 9.3), and more genera per order
(8.6 < 6.4 < 5.4) are present towards the mainland.
Only the relation of families per order is not clearly
gradual, ranging from 2.28 to 2.5 (Table 3). Thus, in
the taxonomical hierarchy relations a clear isolation
from mainland Chamela via coastal Marias to oceanic
Revillagigedo (0 < 0.06 < 0.08). Before the two extinc-
tions, the relation was as high as one endemic taxon
per 10 square kilometres.
A total of 364 bird species belonging to 22 or-
ders have been recorded in the three study areas of
Chamela, Marias, and Revillagigedo, of which 224
are considered to be regular breeders. Thus many of
the recorded species are non-breeding visitors. The
proportion of breeders on the overall avifauna de-
creases from mainland Chamela (53%) via coastal
Marias (32%) to oceanic Revillagigedo (20%) islands
(Fig. 1). Thus, relatively few birds manage to breed
and establish a reproductive population on the islands,
whereas about half of the recorded species do breed
in the mainland reserve. Analyzing the total number
of bird species separately for each of the three study
areas, a decrease is detected regarding all recorded as
well as the breeding species from mainland Chamela
Table 1. Island attributes and bird species abundance in the Mexican Pacic study areas. Data originate from the sources of
appendices I – III.
attributes and area relation
mainland
Chamela
Reserve
costal
Marias
Islands
oceanic
Revillagigedo
Islands
total area (ha) 3319 24544 15783
min. distance to mainland (km) 0 87.33 547.22
max. elevation of terrain (m) 580 640 1040
plant species number 1149 387 202
plant species per area (km2) 34.62 1.58 1.28
bird species per area (km2) 7.89 0.77 0.94
breeding bird species per area (km2) 4.19 0.25 0.18
endemics (ssp. & sp.) per area (km2) 0 0.06 0.08 (0.1)
Fig. 1. Relative numbers of bird species recorded as breeders
and non-breeding visitors in three study areas of the Mexican
Pacic: mainland Chamela reserve, coastal Marias Islands, and
oceanic Revillagigedo Islands.
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Table 2. Principal ecological types of bird species in the Mexican Pacic study areas. Data originate from the sources of appendices
I – III.
bird numbers
mainland
Chamela
Reserve
costal
Marias
Islands
oceanic
Revillagigedo
Islands
terrestrial birds (all records) 185 130 66
terrestrial birds (only breeders) 119 54 16
freshwater birds (all records) 22 18 16
freshwater birds (only breeders) 14 1 1
sea birds (all records) 55 43 66
sea birds (only breeders) 6 6 12
of bird species (all records) 262 191 148
of breeding species (only breeders) 139 61 29
of endemics (subsp. & species) 0 15 13 (+2 extinct)
Table 3. Hierarchical taxa relations of bird species in the Mexican Pacic study areas. Data originate from the sources of appen-
dices I – III.
relation of hierarchical taxa
mainland
Chamela
Reserve
costal
Marias
Islands
oceanic
Revillagigedo
Islands
bird species (all records) 262 191 148
bird genera (all records) 171 115 86
bird families (all records) 47 41 40
bird orders (all records) 20 18 16
bird species per genus (ratio) 1.53 1.66 1.72
bird species per family (ratio) 5.57 4.66 3.7
bird genera per family (ratio) 3.63 2.8 2.15
bird species per order (ratio) 13.1 10.61 9.25
bird genera per order (ratio) 8.55 6.39 5.38
bird families per order (ratio) 2.35 2.28 2.5
Fig. 2 – 3. The Citreoline Trogon Trogon citreolus sumichrasti and the West-Mexican Chachalaca Ortalis poliocephala polioceph-
ala are endemic to West-Mexico mainly restricted to the Pacic slope. Both are rather difcult to observe in the tropical deciduous
forests of mainland Chamela reserve but are unmistakably identied and localised by their intensive calls.
HaHn et al.: Biogeography of Mexican Pacific island birds
128
Revillagigedo waters are rich in sh and other marine
food sources (related overview in BrAttstrom, 1990),
and offer protected resting and breeding grounds.
Among the breeding avifauna, however, landbird
species are more numerous than seabirds in all study
areas. The relatively high number of landbird visitors
on Marias and Revillagigedo Islands can be explained
by the geographical position. Both archipelagos are
placed far away from the mainland; however, they
kind of are positioned in the western Pacic migra-
tion routes, especially for those birds following the
Baja California Peninsula in autumn. Thus, the islands
can be considered as important stop-over locations for
migrant species (comp. BrAttstrom & hoWell, 1956;
WehtJe et al., 1993). The heavy and abundant hurri-
canes hitting this region (average of three per season)
represent another factor increasing the number of ac-
cidental guests and irregular vagrants on both island
groups. Therefore further species records are to be ex-
pected in the future (comp. Jehl & PArkes, 1983).
Freshwater birds were recorded as visitors on the
islands in remarkable numbers (although less than
landbirds and seabirds), but nearly all species lack any
breeding records. This may be due to the absence of
lakes or lagoons, poor food sources in creeks, and high
predation risk by raptors. Many of the island species
have been recorded only few times, probably due to
the low frequency and intensity of observation in these
remote places. Contrarily, mainland Chamela reserve
is much better known and monitored, as two profes-
sional ornithologists work here all year round (e.g.
Arizmendi et al., 1990).
The relatively low ratio of Revillagigedo taxa be-
longing to the next higher taxonomic category (spe-
cies per genus, genera per family, families per order)
is suggested to be the result of isolation by distance,
small area and limited habitats, as well as increased
gradient is found: from mainland Chamela via the
coastal Marias to the oceanic Revillagigedos the de-
gree of relatedness of bird taxa overall decreases.
Discussion
The avifauna of the West-Mexican Pacic study ar-
eas is represented by a high number of bird species
on the mainland, and relatively lower numbers on
the oceanic islands, especially taking into account
the breeders only (comp. also Jehl & PArkes, 1982;
rodiGuez-estrellA et al., 1996). However, the results
show that on the islands, especially on the remote
Revillagigedos, isolation and difculty of dispersal
may not represent the prime reason for bird species
scarcity. One may conclude that the critical point is
the establishment of a permanent colonisation by im-
migrants, maybe in relation to limited habitat suitabil-
ity.
Interestingly the majority of breeding species does
only inhabit one of the two island groups, although
dispersing to the other archipelago does not appear to
be a critical factor: several specimens were seen on
the other major island group but have not established
a permanent population there. Thus the number of
breeders is not limited by geographical isolation and
low immigration rates, but also by ecological factors
such as presence of suitable habitat, competition with
resident species, and successful antagonistic strategies
(hAhn et al., 2009).
Seabirds are as frequent as landbirds on oceanic
Revillagigedo, but by no means in mainland Chamela.
This is probably because most seabirds have large
foraging, wandering and dispersal areas, and the
Fig. 4 – 5. The Cinnamon Hummingbird Amazilia rutila rutila and the Streak-backed Oriole Icterus pustulatus microstictus were
caught in the mainland Chamela reserve during the dry seasons in March 2009 and 2010. They also are distributed along the Pacic
side of Mexico, their ranges reach further south to the evergreen tropical rainforests in Central America.
129
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Acknowledgements
Mexican CONANP and the National Autonomic University
of Mexico (UNAM) gave permissions (2009 and 2010) for
eld work in the study areas. Dr. Jorge Vega, director of the
UNAM Biological Station of Chamela, provided work per-
mits and accommodation at the station, and Dra. Katherine
Renton shared additional information. Transportation to Isla
Isabel was achieved by the local sherman Jorge from San
Blas, who nally did not forget us there, thanks. Dr. Gerardo
Ceballos (UNAM), Dr. Gustavo Fuentes (UNAM), Dr. Juan
Morett (UNAM), Dr. Aramis Olivos (Univ. Colima), Dr. Claus
Siebe (UNAM), Carlos Narro (CONANP), and Dr. Alejandro
Meyer (†, Univ. Colima) gratefully helped with administrative
and organisational matters before and during eld campaigns
in Mexico, as well as Dr. Hermann Mattes and Dr. Otto Klemm
in Münster. IH likes to thank the University of Münster for in-
stitutional support. We are grateful to two anonymous persons
for review and suggestions. This survey was granted by the
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG: AOBJ 560811).
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gigedo, Mexico. – Journal of Biogeography, 17: 177 183.
cAlderón hinoJosA, J.r. elvirA quesAdA, G. GArciA lunA,
e. enkerlin hoeFlich, d. Gutiérrez cArBonell, A. elton
Ben humeA, e. herrerA chi & J. A. cAstreJon PinedA (eds.)
(2008): Programa de conservacion y manejo, Reserva de la
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cArlquist, S. (1974): Island Biology. – Columbia University
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competition for limited resources. It corresponds to
the theoretical suggestions that closely related taxa
tend to reduce each other and that one generalist of
a taxonomic or ecological group tends to replace two
or more specialists on islands; small niches are not
occupied by a specialist species but covered by a gen-
eralist (lAck, 1969; diAmond, 1974; ABBott, 1980).
However, all taxonomical ratio values are still higher
than those of the South-eastern Pacic Juan Fernandez
Islands off Chile (hAhn et al., 2009). The latter are
less numerous, smaller in area size, and further away
from any migration route. The resident landbird spe-
cies pattern provides excellent support for these hy-
potheses. Most endemic landbird taxa originate from
generalist species which are widely distributed on the
(Mexican) mainland, not from specialists or continen-
tal restricted endemics.
For conservational concern, especially the endemic
breeding birds of the islands are important. Distribution
areas and number of habitats are generally very limited
on these small archipelagos. The destruction of native
habitat is particularly detrimental to the endemic taxa,
since their habitat preferences are more selective than
those of non-endemics (comp. rodiGuez-estrellA et
al., 1996; hAhn et al., 2005, 2011a, b). Most of the en-
demic species seem to be threatened today (restricted
area and low abundance) and should be classied for
conservation importance in the future (e.g. like done
by WAlter 2004). Presently a third endemic taxon,
the Socorro Dove Zenaida graysoni lAWrence, 1871
is close to extinction (only captive population main-
tained), and may speed up the recently high extinction
rate on Revillagigedo. A reliable conservation ranking,
including factors as habitat loss may prepare the basis
for a more successful species management. Further
threats seem to be the new invasive mammals on the
islands (e.g. rodiGuez-estrellA et al., 1991; comp.
also hAhn & römer, 2002).
Habitat destruction, mainly through man-made
res and introduced herbivores, is valued as the most
serious concern for this critical situation. By destroy-
ing higher vegetation, herbivores are likely to have
a negative effect on most scrubland and forest birds.
Conservation management for the endemics must in-
clude the total eradication of introduced mammals. In
spite of the present species inventories, very little is
known about the endemic species. More detailed stud-
ies of the ecology of most endemics of Marias and
Revillagigedo Islands are necessary. Such knowledge
is urgently needed in order to develop conservation
policies and regulations for the preservation of these
unique bird assemblages.
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mArtínez-Gómez, J.e. & curry, r.l. (1998): Distinguishing
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Ornitologia Neotropical, 9: 103 – 110.
mArtínez-Gómez, J.e., Flores-PAlAcios, A. curry, r.l. (2001):
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quez, l., mirAndA, F., villAloBos, A., herrerA, t., villA,
B. & vásquez, l. (eds.): La Isla Socorro, Archipiélago de
Revillagigedo. – Monograas de del Instituto de Geosica
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moors, P.J. (1985): Conservation of island birds: case studies
for the management of threatened island birds. – ICBP Page
Bros, Cambridge: 276p.
rodiGuez-estrellA, r., ArnAud, G., AlvArez cArdenAs, s. &
rodriGuez, A. (1991): Predation by feral cats on birds at
Isla Socorro, Mexico. – Western Birds, 22: 141 – 143.
rodiGuez-estrellA, r., luz, J.l.l. de lA, BrecedA, A., cAs tel-
lAnos, A., cAncino, J. & llinAs, J. (1996): Status, density
and habitat relationships of the endemic terrestrial birds of
Revillagigedo Islands, Mexico. – Biological Conservation,
76: 195 – 202.
sAntAellA, l. & sAdA, A.m. (1991): The avifauna of the Re-
vil la gigedo Islands, Mexico: additional data and observa-
tions. – Wilson Bulletin, 103: 668–675.
sAntos del PrAdo GAscA, k., neGrete Fernández, G.J., cA-
BAl lero nieto, J., González medrAno, F. & medellín le-
GrretA, r. (eds.) (2006): Investigación para la conser va-
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stAttersField, A.J., crosBy, m.J., lonG, A.J. & WeGe, d.c.
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steAdmAn, d.W. (1989). Extinction of birds in eastern Poly-
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land birds: biodiversity meets zooarchaeology. Science
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Benedicto. – Sociedad de Ciencias Naturales de Jalisco
(Me xico), 6: 1 – 36.
cAstellAnos, A. & rodriGuez-estrellA, r. (1993): Current
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Bird areas. – Commission for Environmental Cooperation,
Montreal: 359p.
clements, J.F. (2000): Birds of the world: a checklist. – Cornell
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dickinson, E.C. (2003): The Howard & Moore complete check-
list of the birds of the world. – Princeton University Press,
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adjacent Areas. – University of Texas Press, Austin: 209p.
Fox quesAdA, v., A. cárdenAs Jiménez, A. echevArríA domín-
Guez, e. enkerlin hoeFlich, d. Gutiérrez cArBonell & c.
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cion y manejo del Parque nacional Isla Isabel, Mexico.
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servacion y manejo Reserva de la Biosphera Archipelago
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City: 222 p.
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the Tres Marias Islands, Nayarit, Mexico. – Condor, 66:
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Fernandez Archipelago, Chile: the impact of introduced
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hAhn, i., verGArA, P. & römer, u. (2011a): Importance of
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Appendix I.
Bird species of the West-Mexican study area: mainland Chamela Reserve.
Information sources are: 1 = Arizmendi et al. (1990), 2 = hoWell & WeBB (1995) (breeding status), 3 = personal records by the
authors. Symbols: × = marks a record a in the category.
scientific name common name breeder non breeder source
Crypturellus cinnamomeus Thicket Tinamou × 1, 2
Gavia immer Common Loon × 1, 2
Podilymbus podiceps Pied-Billed Grebe × 1, 2
Puffinus griseus Sooty Shearwater × 1, 2
Puffinus opistomelas Black-Vented Sheawater × 1, 2
Oceanodroma microsoma Least Storm-Petrel × 1, 2
Paethon aethereus mesonauta Red-billed Tropicbird × 1, 2
Sula leucogaster Brown Booby × 1, 2
Pelecanus erythrorhynchos American white Pelican × 1, 2
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican × 1, 2
Phalacrocorax brasilianus Neotropic Cormorant × 1, 2
Fregata magnificens Magnificent Frigatebird × 1, 2, 3
Ixobryxchus exilis Least Bittern × 1, 2
Ardea herodias Great blue Heron × 1, 2
Egretta alba egretta Great Egret × 1, 2
Egretta thula Snowy Egret × 1, 2
Egretta caerulea Little blue Heron × 1, 2
Egretta tricolour Tricolored Heron × 1, 2
Egretta rufescens Reddish Egret × 1, 2
Bubuculus ibis ibis Cattle Egret × 1, 2
Butorides virescens Green Heron × 1, 2
Cochlearius cochlearius Boat-billed Heron × 1, 2
Dendrocygna autumnalis Black-Bellied Whistling-Duck × 1, 2
Cairina moschata Muscovy Duck × 1, 2
Anas discors Blue-winged teal × 1, 2
Anas cyanoptera Cinnamon teal × 1, 2
Anas clypeata Northern shoveler × 1, 2
Aythya americana Redhead × 1, 2
Aythya affinis Lesser Scaup × 1, 2
Oxyura dominica Masked Duck × 1, 2
Coragyps atratus Black Vulture × 1, 2
Cathartes aura Turkey Vulture × 1, 2
Pandion haliaetus Osprey × 1, 2
Chondrohierax uncinatus Hook-Billed Kite × 1, 2
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Elanus leucurus majuscules White-tailed Kite × 1, 2
Accipiter striatus Sharp-Shinned Hawk × 1, 2
Accipiter cooperii Cooper’s Hawk × 1, 2
Geranospiza caerulescens Crane Hawk × 1, 2
Buteogallus anthracinus Common Black Hawk × 1, 2
Buteogallus urubitinga ridgwayi Great Balck Hawk × 1, 2
Parabuteo unicinctus Harris’ Hawk × 1, 2
Buteo nitidus Grey Hawk × 1, 2
Buteo magnirostris Roadside Hawk × 1, 2
Buteo brachyurus fuliginosus Short-tailed Hawk × 1, 2
Buteo albonotatus albonotatus Zone-tailed Hawk × 1, 2
Buteo jamaicensis Red-tailed Hawk × 1, 2
Caracara planus Crested Caracara × 1, 2
Herpetotheres cachinnans Laughing Falcon × 1, 2
Micrastur semitorquatus naso Collared Forest-Falcon × 1, 2
Falco sparverius American Kestrel × 1, 2
Falco rufigularis Bat Falcon × 1, 2
Falco peregrines Peregrine Falcon × 1, 2
Ortalis poliocephala West-Me×ican Chachalaca × 1, 2, 3
Philortyx fasiatus Banded Quail × 1, 2
Callipepla douglasii Elegant Quail × 1, 2
Aramides axillaris Rufous-Necked Wood-rail × 1, 2
Porphyrula martinica Purple Gallinule × 1, 2
Gallinula chloropus cachinmans Common Woorhen × 1, 2
Fulica amricana americana American Coot × 1, 2
Pluvialis squatarola Black-bellied Plover × 1, 2
Charadrius collaris Collared Plover × 1, 2
Charadrius alexandrines Snowy Plover × 1, 2
Charadius wilsonia Wilson’s Plover × 1, 2
Charadrius semipalmatus Semipalmated Plover × 1, 2
Charadrius vociferous vociferous Killdeer × 1, 2
Haematopus palliates American Oystercatcher × 1, 2
Himantopus mexicanus Black-necked Stilt × 1, 2
Recurvirostra americana American Avocet × 1, 2
Jacana spinosa Northern Jacana × 1, 2
Tringa melanoleuca Greater Yellowlegs × 1, 2
Tringa flavipes Lesser Yellowlegs × 1, 2
Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Willet × 1, 2
Heteroscelus incanus Wandering Tattler × 1, 2
Actitis macularia Spotted Sandpiper × 1, 2
Numenius phaeopus hudsonicus Whimbrel × 1, 2
Numenius americanus Long-billed Curlew × 1, 2
Limosa fedoa Marbled Godwit × 1, 2
Calidris alba Sanderling × 1, 2
Calidris pusilla Semipalmated Sandpiper × 1, 2
Calidris mauri Western Sandpiper × 1, 2
Calidris minutilla Least Sandpiper × 1, 2
Calidris himantopus Stilt Sandpiper × 1, 2
Limnodromus griseus Short-billed Dowitcher × 1, 2
Limnodromus scolopaceus Long-billed Dowitcher × 1, 2
Gallinago gallinago delicate Common Snipe × 1, 2
Phalaropus tricolor Wilson’s Phalarope × 1, 2
Phalaropus lobatus Red-Necked Phalarope × 1, 2
Phalaropus fulicaria Red Phalarope × 1, 2
Larus atricilla Laughing Gull × 1, 2
Larus pipixcan Franklin’s Gull × 1, 2
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Larus philadelphia Bonaparte’s Gull × 1, 2
Larus heermanni Hermann´s Gull × 1, 2
Larus delawarensis Ring-billed Gull × 1, 2
Larus argentatus smithsonianus Herring Gull × 1, 2
Sterna caspia Caspian Tern × 1, 2
Sterna maxima maxima Royal Tern × 1, 2
Sterna elegans Elegant Tern × 1, 2
Sterna hirundo hirundo Common Tern × 1, 2
Sterna forsteri Forster’s Tern × 1, 2
Chilidonias niger surinamensis Black Tern × 1, 2
Anous stolidus Brown Noody × 1, 2
Rynchops niger niger Black Skimmer × 1, 2
Columba livia Feral Pidgeon × 1, 2
Columba flavirostris Red-billed Pigeon × 1, 2
Zenaida asiatica White-winged Dove × 1, 2
Zanaida macroura Mourning Dove × 1, 2
Columbina inca Inca-Dove × 1, 2
Columbina passerina Common Ground-Dove × 1, 2, 3
Columbina talpacoti Ruddy Ground-Dove × 1, 2
Leptotila verreauxi White-tipped Dove × 1, 2
Aratinga holochlora Green Parakeet × 1, 2
Aratinga canicularis Orange-fronted Parakeet × 1, 2
Ara militaris Milirary Macaw × 1, 2
Forpus cyanopygius Me×ican Parrotlet × 1, 2
Amazona finschi Lilac-crowned Parrot × 1, 2
Amazona oratrix Yellow-headed Parrot × 1, 2
Coccyzus minor Mangrove Cuckoo × 1, 2
Piaya cayana Squirrel Cuckoo × 1, 2
Morococcyx erythropygus Lesser Ground-Cuckoo × 1, 2
Geococcyx velox Lesser Roadrunner × 1, 2
Crotophaga sulcirostris Groove-billed Ani × 1, 2
Tyto alba Barn Owl × 1, 2
Otus seductus Balsas Screech-Owl × 1, 2
Glaucidium griseiceps Central American Pygmy-Owl × 1, 2
Glaucidium brasilianum Ferruginous Pygmy-Owl × 1, 2
Athene cunicularia Burrowing Owl × 1, 2
Strix virgata Mottled Owl × 1, 2
Chordeiles acutipennis Lesser Nighthawk × 1, 2
Nyctidromus albicollis Pauraque × 1, 2
Caprimulgus ridgwayi Buff-Collared Nightjar × 1, 2
Nyctibius jamaicensis Northern Potoo × 1, 2
Chaetura vauxi Vau×’s Swift × 1, 2
Phaethornis superciliosus Long-tailed Hermit × 1, 2
Chlorostilbon canivetii Canvet’s Emerald × 1, 2
Cynanthus latirostris Broad-billed Hummingbird × 1, 2
Amazilia rutila Cinnamon Hummingbird × 1, 2, 3
Amazilia violiceps Violet-crowned Hummingbird × 1, 2
Heliomaster constantii Plain-capped Starthroat × 1, 2
Philodice dupontii Sparkling-tailed Woodstar × 1, 2
Archilochus colubris Ruby-thorated Hummingbird × 1, 2
Archilochus alexandri Black-chinned Hummingbird × 1, 2
Trogon citreolus Citreoline Trogon × 1, 2, 3
Momotus mexicanus Russet-crowned Motmot × 1, 2
Ceryle torquata torquata Ringed Kingfisher × 1, 2
Ceryle alcyon Belted Kingfisher × 1, 2
Chloroceryle amazona mexicana Amazon Kingfisher × 1, 2
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Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher × 1, 2
Centurus chrysogenys Golden-cheeked Woodpecker × 1, 2, 3
Picoides scalaris Ladder-backed Woodpecker × 1, 2
Dryocopus lineatus Lineated Woodpecker × 1, 2, 3
Campephilus guatemalensis Pale-billed Woodpecker × 1, 2
Xiphorhynchus flavigaster Ivory-billed Woodcreeper × 1, 2
Lepidocolaptes leucogaster White-striped Woodcreeper × 1, 2
Camptostoma imberbe Northern beardless Tyrannulet × 1, 2
Myiopagis viridicata Greenish Elania × 1, 2
Empidonax trailii Willow Flycatcher × 1, 2
Empidonax minimus Least Flycatcher × 1, 2
Empidonax difficilis Pacific Slope Flycatcher × 1, 2
Sayornis nigricans Black Phoebe × 1, 2
Pyrocephalus rubinus Vermilion Flycatcher × 1, 2
Attila spadiceus Bright-rumped Attila × 1, 2
Myiarchus tuberculifer Dusky-capped Flycatcher × 1, 2
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-thoroated Flycatcher × 1, 2
Myiarchus nuttingi Nutting’s Flycatcher × 1, 2
Myiarchus tyrannulus Brown-crested Flycatcher × 1, 2
Deltarhynchus flammulatus Flammulated Flycatcher × 1, 2
Pitangus sulphuratus Great Kiskadee × 1, 2
Megarynchus pitangua Boat-billed Flycatcher × 1, 2
Myiozetetes similis Social Flycatcher × 1, 2
Myiodynastes luetiventris Sulphur-billed Flycatcher × 1, 2
Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird × 1, 2
Tyrannus vociferans Cassin’s Kingbird × 1, 2
Tyrannus crassirostris Thick-billed Kingbird × 1, 2
Pachyramphus major Grey-collared Becard × 1, 2
Pachyramphus aglaiae Rose-throated Becard × 1, 2
Progne chalybea Grey-brested Martin × 1, 2
Tachycineta albilinea albilinea Mangrove Swallow × 1, 2
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern Rough-winged Swallow × 1, 2
Hirundo rustican erythrogaster Barn Swallow × 1, 2
Calocitta formosa White-throated Magpie-Jay × 1, 2, 3
Cyanocorax yncas Green Jay × 1, 2
Cyanocorax sanblasianus San Blas Jay × 1, 2, 3
Thryothorus felix Happy Wren × 1, 2, 3
Thryothorus sinaloa Sinaloa Wren × 1, 2
Urospila leucogaster White-bellied Wren × 1, 2
Troglodytes aedon Northern House Wren × 1, 2
Polioptila caerulea Blue-grey Gnatcatcher × 1, 2, 3
Polioptila nigriceps Black-capped Gnatcatcher × 1, 2, 3
Catharus aurantiirostris Orange-billed Nightingale-Thrush × 1, 2
Catharus ustulatus Swaison’s Thrush × 1, 2
Turdus assimilis White-throated Thrush × 1, 2
Turdus rufopalliatus Rufous-backed Thrush × 1, 2
Melanotis caerulescens Blue Mockingbird × 1, 2
Mimus polyglottos leucopterus Northern Mockingbird × 1, 2
Vireo belli Bell’s Vireo × 1, 2
Vireo atricapillus Black-capped Vireo × 1, 2
Vireo vicinior Grey Vireo × 1, 2
Vireo solitaries solitaries Blue-headed Vireo × 1, 2
Vireo hypochryseus Golden Vireo × 1, 2
Vireo gilvus Warbling Vireo × 1, 2
Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed Vireo × 1, 2
Vermivora celata Orange-crowned Warbler × 1, 2
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Vermivora ruficapilla Nashville Warbler × 1, 2
Vermivora luciae Lucy’s Warbler × 1, 2
Parula pitiayumi Tropical Parula × 1, 2, 3
Dendroica petechia Yellow Warbler × 1, 2
Dendroica coronate Yellow-rumped Warbler × 1, 2
Dendroica nigrescens Black-throated Grey Warbler × 1, 2
Mniotilta varia Black-and-white Warbler × 1, 2, 3
Setophaga ruticilla American Redstart × 1, 2
Seiurus aurocapillus Ovenbird × 1, 2
Seiurus noveboracensis Northern Watertrush × 1, 2
Seiurus motacilla Louisiana Waterthrush × 1, 2
Oporornis formosus Kentucky Warbler × 1, 2
Oporornis tolmiei MacGilvray’s Warbler × 1, 2
Geothlypis trichas Common Yellowthroat × 1, 2
Geothlypis poliocephala Grey-crowned Yellowthroat × 1, 2
Wilsonia pusilla Wilson´s Warbler × 1, 2
Basileuterus lachrymose Fan-tailed Warbler × 1, 2
Icteria virens Yellow-breasted Chat × 1, 2
Granatellus venustus Red-breasted Chat × 1, 2
Euphonia affinis Scrub Euphonia × 1, 2
Habia rubica Red-crowned Ant-Tanager × 1, 2
Piranga rubra Summer Tanager × 1, 2
Piranga ludoviciana Western Tanager × 1, 2
Spermangara erythrocephala Red-headed Tanager × 1, 2
Rhodinocichla rosea schistacea Rosy Thrush-Tanager × 1, 2
Saltador coerulescens Greyish Saltador × 1, 2
Cardinalis cardinalis Northern Cardinal × 1, 2
Pheucticus chrysopeplus Yellow Grosbeak × 1, 2
Pheucticus ludovicianus Rose-breasted Grosbeak × 1, 2
Pheucticus melanocephalus Black-headed Grosbeak × 1, 2
Cyanocompsa paellina Blue Bunting × 1, 2
Passerina caerulea Blue Grosbeak × 1, 2
Passerina cyanea Indigo Bunting × 1, 2
Passerina versicolor Varied Bunting × 1, 2
Passerina leclancherii Orange-breasted Bunting × 1, 2
Passerina ciris Painted Bunting × 1, 2
Arremonops rufivirgatus Olive Sparrow × 1, 2
Volatinia jacarina spendens Blue-black Grassquit × 1, 2
Sporophila torqueola White-collared Seedeater × 1, 2
Sporophila minuta parva Ruddy-breasted Seedeater × 1, 2
Aimophila humeralis Black-crested Sparrow × 1, 2
Aimophila ruficauda Stripe-headed Sparrow × 1, 2
Aimophila botterii Botteri’s Sparrow × 1, 2
Chondestes grammacus Lark Sparrow × 1, 2
Ammodramus savannarum Grasshopper Sparrow × 1, 2
Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln’s Sparrow × 1, 2
Zonotrichia leucophrys White-crowned Sparrow × 1, 2
Agelaius phoeniceus Red-winged Blackbird × 1, 2
Sturnella magna Eastern Meadowlark × 1, 2
Quiscalus mexicanus Great-tailed Grackle × 1, 2, 3
Molothrus aenus Bronzed Cowbird × 1, 2
Molothrus ater Brown-headed Cowbird × 1, 2
Icterus spurious Orchard Oriole × 1, 2
Icterus cucullatus Hooded Oriole × 1, 2
Icterus graduacauda Audubon’s Oriole × 1, 2
Icterus pustulatus Streak-backed Oriole × 1, 2
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Icterus galbula Baltimore Oriole × 1, 2
Cacicus melanicterus Yellow-winged Caique × 1, 2, 3
Carduelis psaltria Lesser Goldfinsh × 1, 2
Passer domesticus domesticus House Sparrow × 1, 2
Appendix II.
Bird species list of the West-Mexican study area: Marias Islands.
Island records: Mg = Maria Magdalena, Ma = Maria Madre, C = Maria Cleofas, J = San Juanito, IM = all Tres Marias Islands
(information source with no details to islands). Information sources: 1 = cAlderón hinoJosA et al. (2008), 2 = GrAnt & coWAn
(1964), 3 = hoWell & WeBB (1995), 4 = sAntos del PrAdo et al. (2006). Symbols: E = endemic.
scientific name common name breeder non breeder Source
Podiceps nigricollis califormicus Eared Grebe IM 1,3
Phaethon aethereus mesonauta Red-billed Tropicbird J,Ma,Mg,C J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Sula nebouxii nebouxii Blue-footed Booby J,C J,C 1,2,3,4
Sula leucogaster Brown Booby J,C J,C 1,2,3,4
Sula sula Red-footed Booby 4
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican J,C J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Phalacrocorax auritus Double-crested Cormorant IM 3
Fregata magnificens Magnificent Frigatebird J,C J,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Ardea herodias Great Blue Heron J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Egretta alba Great White Egret J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3
Egretta thula Snowy Egret Ma 1,2,3,4
Egretta caerulea Little Blue Heron Mg 2,3
Egretta tricolor Tricolored Heron Ma 1,2,3
Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret IM 1,3,4
Butorides virescens Green Heron IM 1,3
Nycticorax violaceus Yellow-cowned Night-Heron Mg Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis Ma 1,2
Plegadis chihi White-faced Ibis IM 3,4
Anas crecca carolinensis Green-winged Teal 4
Anas discors Blue-winged Teal 4
Anas clypeata Northern Shoveler IM 1
Aythya americana Redhead IM 3
Mergus merganser americanus Common Merganser IM 1
Mergus serrator Red-breasted Merganser IM 1,3
Gallus gallus domesticus Chicken 4
Coragyps atratus Black Vulture IM 1,3
Cathartes aura Turkey Vulture IM J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Pandion haliaetus Osprey IM,Ma J,Ma,Mg,C 2,3,4
Chondrohierax uncinatus Hook-billed Kite IM Mg 1,2,3
Circus cyaneus hudsonius Northern Harrier Ma 1,2,3
Accipiter cooperi Cooper’s Hawk 4
Buteogallus anthracinus Common Black Hawk Mg 1,2,3
E Buteo jamaicensis fumosus Tres-Marias Red-tailed Hawk IM Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Caracara plancus Crested Caracara IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Falco sparverius American Kestrel Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Falco columbarius Merlin Ma,C 1,2,3,4
Falco rufigularis Bat Falcon Ma 1,2,3
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Falco peregrines Peregrine Falcon Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3
Callipepla douglasii Elegant Quail IM Ma 1,2,3,4
Rallus limicola Virginia Rail 4
Fulica americana americana American Coot Ma 1,2,3,4
Pluvialis squatarola Black-billed Plover Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Pluvialis dominica American Golden Plover Mg 1,2,3,4
Charadrius alexandrinus Snowy Plover Mg,C 1,2,3
Charadrius semipalmatus Semipalmated Plover Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Charadrius vociferous vociferous Killdeer Mg 1,2,3,4
Haematopus palliates American Oystercatcher IM J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Himantopus mexicanus Black-necked Stilt Ma 1,2,3,4
Tringa flavipes Lesser Yellowlegs Ma 1,2,3,4
Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper Mg 1,2,3,4
Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Willet J,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Heteroscelus incanus Wandering Tattler J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3
Actitis macularia Spotted Sandpiper J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3
Numenius phaeopus hudsonicus Whimbrel J,Mg 1,2,3,4
Numenius americanus Long-billed Curlew Ma 1,2,3
Limosa fedoa Marbled Godwit IM 1,3
Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone IM 1,3
Arenaria melanocephola Black Turnstone IM 3
Aphriza virgata Surfbird IM 1,3
Calidris alba Sanderling J 1,2,3
Calidris mauri Western Sandpiper IM 1,3
Calidris minutilla Least Sandpiper Mg 1,2,3
Calidris bairdii Baird’s Sandpiper Ma 1,2,3
Calidris melanotus Pectoral Sandpiper J,Ma,Mg 1,2,3
Calidris alpine Dunlin IM 1,3
Limnodromus griseus Short-billed Dowitcher IM 1,3
Limnodromus scolopaceus Long-billed Dowitcher IM 3,4
Gallinago gallinago delicata Common Snipe IM 1,3
Phalaropus tricolor Wilson’s Phalarope Ma 1,2,3,4
Larus atricilla Laughing Gull Ma 1,2,3
Larus philadelphia Bonaparte’s Gull IM 1,3
Larus heermanni Hermann´s Gull Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Larus delawarensis Ring-billed Gull Ma,Mg,C 1,3
Larus argentatus smithsonianus Herring Gull J 1,2,3,4
Sterna maxima maxima Royal Tern Ma,C 1,2,3,4
Sterna elegans Elegant Tern Ma 1,2,3
Columba livia Feral Pidgeon IM IM 1,3,4
Columba flavirostris Red-billed Pigeon IM IM 1,3,4
E Columba flavirostris madrensis Tres Marias Pigeon IM,Mg Ma,Mg,C 2
Zenaida asiatica White-winged Dove IM 1,3,4
Zenaida asiatica mearnsi Western White-winged Dove IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 2
Zanaida macroura Mourning Dove IM 1,3,4
Zanaida macroura carolinensis Eastern Mourning Dove Ma 2
Columbina inca Inca-Dove IM 3
Columbina passerina passerina Common Ground-Dove IM IM 1,3,4
Columbina passerina pallescens Mexican Ground-Dove IM J,Ma,Mg,C 2
E Leptotila verreauxi capitalis Tres Marias Dove IM,Mg Ma,Mg,J 1,2,3,4
Forpus cyanopygius Mexican Parrotlet IM IM 1,3,4
E Forpus cyanopygius insularis Tres Marias Parrotlet IM Ma,Mg,C 2
Amazona oratrix Yellow-headed Parrot IM IM 3,4
E Amazona oratrix tresmariae Tres Marias Parrot IM J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2
Amazona auropalliata Yellow-naped Parrot IM 1
Coccyzus minor minor Mangrove Cuckoo IM IM 1,3
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Coccyzus minor palloris Mangrove Cuckoo IM,Mg Ma,Mg 2
Crotophaga sulcirostris Groove-billed Ani IM IM 1,3
Tyto alba alba Barn Owl IM IM 1,3,4
Tyto alba pratincola American Barn Owl Ma 2
E Micrathene whitneyi graysoni Socorro Elf Owl IM 1,3,4
Athene cunicularia Burrowing Owl IM 1,3,4
Chordeiles acutipennis Lesser Nighthawk IM(?) IM(?) 1,3
Chordeiles acutipennis texensis Texas Nighthawk IM(?) Ma,C 2
Nyctidromus albicollis albicollis Pauraque IM IM 1,3,4
Nyctidromus albicollis insularis Tres Marias Pauraque IM,Ma Ma,Mg,C 2
E Cynanthus latirostris lawrencei Lawrence’s Hummingbird IM,Ma,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
E Amazilia rutila graysoni Grayson’s Hummingbird IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Selasphorus rufus Rufous Hummingbird IM 3
Trogon elegans elegans Elegant Trogon IM IM 1,3,4
Trogon elegans goldmani Goldman’s Trogon IM Ma,Mg,C 2
Ceryle torquata torquata Ringed Kingfisher C 1,2,3
Ceryle alcyon alcyon Belted Kingfisher IM 1,4
Ceryle alcyon caurina Northwestern Belted Kingfisher Ma,Mg,C 2
Chloroceryle americana Green Kingfisher 1,3,4
Picoides scalaris Ladder-backed Woodpecker IM,Ma,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Camptostoma imberbe Northern beardless Tyrannulet IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3
Myiopagis viridicata viridicata Greenish Elania IM IM 1,3
Myiopagis viridicata minima Small Greenish Elania IM Ma,Mg,C 2
Contopus sordidulus Western Pewee Ma 1,2,3,4
Contopus virens Eastern Pewee IM 1,3
Empidonax difficilis Pacific Slope Flycatcher Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Pyrocephalus rubinus Vermilion Flycatcher Ma 1,2,3,4
Myiarchus tuberculifer Dusky-capped Flycatcher IM IM 1,3
Myiarchus tuberculifer tresmariae Tres Maria Flycatcher IM J,Ma,Mg,C 2
Myiarchus tyrannulus Brown-crested Flycatcher IM Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird IM IM 1,3,4
Tyrannus melancholicus occidentalis West Mexican Kingbird IM,Mg,C Ma,Mg,C 2
Pachyramphus aglaiae Rose-throated Becard IM,Mg Ma,Mg 1,2,4
Tachycineta albilinea albilinea Mangrove Swallow IM IM 3,4
Hirundo rustica erythrogaster Barn Swallow 4
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus Cactus Wren IM 1
E Thryothorus felix lawrencei Lawrence’s Happy Wren IM,Mg Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Polioptila nigriceps Black-capped Gnatcatcher 4
E Myadestes occidentalis insularis Tres Marias Solitaire IM Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Catharus ustulatus Swaison’s Thrush Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
E Turdus rufopallitus graysoni Grayson’s Thrush IM,Mg Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
E Melanotis caerulescens longirostris Blue Mockingbird IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Mimus polyglottos leucopterus Northern Mockingbird IM Ma,Mg 1,2,3,4
Anthus rubescens American Pipit Mg 1,2,3
Bombycilla cedrorum Cedar Waxwing 1,3
Lanius ludovicianus Loggerhead Shrike 3
Vireo solitaries solitaries Blue-headed Vireo Ma 1,2,3
Vireo hypochryseus hypochryseus Golden Vireo 1,3,4
Vireo hypochryseus sordidus Common Golden Vireo IM Ma,Mg,C 2
Vireo gilvus Warbling Vireo Mg 1,2,3
Vireo flavoviridis flavoviridis Yellow-Green Vireo 1,3,4
Vireo flavoviridis forreri Forrer’s Vireo IM,Mg Ma,Mg,C 2
Vireo olivaceus Red-eyed Vireo 1
Vermivora celata celata Orange-crowned Warbler 1,3,4
Vermivora celata lutescens Lutescent Warbler Ma,Mg 2
E Parula pitiayumi insularis Tres Marias Tropical Parula IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
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Dendroica petechia petechia Yellow Warbler 1,3,4
Dendroica petechia rubiginosa Alaska Yellow Warbler Ma 2
Dendroica petechia morocomi Marocom’s Warbler Ma,Mg 2
Dendroica coronate Yellow-rumped Warbler 1,3,4
Dendroica auduboni Audubon’s Warbler Ma,Mg,C 1,2
Dendroica nigrescens Black-throated Grey Warbler Mg 1,2,3
Dendroica townsendi Townsend’s Warbler Ma,Mg 1,2,3
Mniotilta varia Black-and-white Warbler Mg 1,2,3,4
Setophaga ruticilla American Redstart Mg 1,2,3
Seiurus aurocapillus Ovenbird Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Seiurus noveboracensis Northern Watertrush Mg 1,2,3
Seiurus motacilla Louisiana Waterthrush Mg 1,2,3
Oporornis tolmiei MacGilvray’s Warbler Mg 1,2,3
Wilsonia pusilla Wilson´s Warbler Ma,C 1,2,3,4
E Granatellus venustus francescae Tres Marias Chat IM,Mg Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Granatellus sallaei Grey-throated Chat 1
Piranga ludoviciana Western Tanager Ma,Mg 1,2,3
Piranga bidentata bidentata Flame-colored Tanager 1,3,4
Piranga bidentata flammea IM Ma,Mg,C 2
E Cardinalis cardinalis mariae Las Marias Cardinal IM,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Pheucticus melanocephalus Black-headed Grosbeak Ma,Mg 1,2,3
Passerina cyanea Indigo Bunting Ma 1,2,3
Passerina versicolor Varied Bunting Mg 1,2,3
Passerina ciris ciris Painted Bunting 1,3
Passerina ciris pallidior Western Painted Bunting Mg 2
Spiza americana Dickcissel 1,3
Sporophila torqueola White-collared Seedeater Ma 1,2,3
Spizella breweri breweri Brewer’s Sparrow 3
Poocetes gramineus Vesper Sparrow 1,3
Chondestes grammacus Lark Sparrow 1,3,4
Melospiza lincolnii Lincoln’s Sparrow 1,3
Zonotrichia leucophrys leucophrys White-crowned Sparrow 1,3,4
Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii Gambel’s Sparrow 1
Quiscalus mexicanus Great-tailed Grackle Ma 1,2,3
Molothrus ater ater Brown-headed Cowbird 1,3
Molothrus ater obscures Small Cowbird J,Mg 2
Icterus cucullatus Hooded Oriole 1,3
Icterus pustulatus graysoni Streak-backed Oriole IM,Ma,Mg J,Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Icterus gularis Altamira Oriole 1
Carpodacus cassinii Cassin’s Finsh Ma 1,2,3
Carduelis psaltria Lesser Goldfinsh IM Ma,Mg,C 1,2,3,4
Passer d. domesticus House Sparrow J 1,3,4
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Appendix III.
Bird species of the West-Mexican study area: Revillagigedo Islands.
Information sources: 1 = Fox quesAdA et al. (2004), 2 = hoWell & WeBB (1995), 3 =WehtJe et al. (1993); 4 = BrAttstrom &
hoWell (1956); 5 = sAntAellA & sAdA (1991); 6 = Jehl & PArks (1982). Island records: S = Socorro, C = Clarion, SB = San
Benedicto, RP = Roca Partida, RG = whole Archipelago (source without details to island). Symbols: † = extinct, E = endemic.
scientific name common name breeder non breeder source
Podilymbus podiceps Pied-billed Grebe S 1,2,3,6
Diomedea albatrus Short-tailed Albatross SB 1,2,5
Diomedea nigripes Black-footed Albatross C, SB 1,2,6
Diomedea immutabilis Laysan Albatross C, SB S,C,SB 1,2,3,5
Pterodroma externa Juan Fernandez Petrel C 1,2,5
Pterodroma phaeopygia phaeopygia Dark-rumped Petrel RG 2
Pterodroma neglecta juana Kermadec Petrel RG 2
Pterodroma arminjoniana Herald Petrel RG 2
Pterodroma rostrata Tahiti Petrel C 1,2,5
Pterodroma cookie Cook’s Petrel SB, C, RP 1,2,5
Pterodroma nigripennis Black-winged Petrel C 1,2,5
Puffinus creatopus Pink-footed Shearwater SB 1,2,6
Puffinus carneipes Flesh-footed Shearwater C, RP 1,2,5
Puffinus pacificus cuneatus Wedge-tailed Shearwater SB C, SB 1,2,3,4,5,6
Puffinus griseus Sooty Shearwater RG 2
E Puffinus auricularis auricularis Townsend’s Shearwater S, C, SB S, C, SB 1,2,3,4,5,6
Puffinus lherminieri Audubon`s Shearwater S, SB 1,2,3,5
Oceanodroma leucorhoa Leach’s Storm-Petrel S,C,SB,RP 2,3,5
Oceanites oceanicus Wilson’s Storm-Petrel C, SB, RP 1,5
Oceanodroma castro Harcourt’s Storm-Petrel C, SB 1,2,5
Oceanodroma tethys Galapagos Storm-Petrel S, RP 2,3,5,6
Oceanodroma melania Black Storm-Petrel SB 2,5
Oceanodroma microsoma Least Storm-Petrel RG 2
Phaethon aethereus Red-billed Tropicbird S, C S, C, SB 1,2,3,4,5,6
Phaethon rubricauda Red-tailed Troipicbird SB SB 1,2,5
Sula dactylatra Masked Booby C, SB S,C,SB, RP 1,2,3,4,5,6
Sula nebouxii Blue-footed Booby SB 1,2,4
Sula leucogaster Brown Booby RP S,C,SB,RP 1,2,3,4,5,6
Sula sula Red-Footed Booby C S,C SB,RP 1,2,3,4,5,6
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican SB 1,2,4
Fregata magnificens Magnificent Frigatebird SB S, SB 1,2,3,5,6
Fregata minor Great Frigatebird SB S,C,SB,RP 1,2,3,4,5,6
Ardea herodias Great Blue Heron S, C 1,2,3,5
Egretta alba Great White Egret S,C 1,2,3
Egretta thula Snowy Egret S, C 1,2,3,4,6
Egretta tricolor Tricolored Heron RG 2
Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret S, C 1,2,3,5,6
Butorides virescens Green Heron S 1,2
E Nycticorax violaceus gravirostris Socorro Yellow-crowned Night-heron S S 1,2,3,4,6
Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis C 1,2,4
Plegadis chihi White-faced Ibis RG 2
Anas spec. Duck C 6
Anas discors Blue-winged Teal C 1,2
Pandion haliaetus Osprey S, C, SB 1,2,3,4,6
Elanus leucurus majusculus White-tailed Kite S 1
Circus cyaneus hudsonius Northern Harrier S S 1,3
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Acciper striatus Sharp-shinned Hawk S, SB 1,2,3
Accipiter cooperi Cooper’s Hawk S 1,3
E Buteo jamaicensis socorroensis Red-tailed Hawk S S, SB 1,2,3,4,5,6
Falco sparverius American Kestrel S, C, SB 1,2,3
Falco columbarius Merlin S 1,2
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon S, C, SB 1,2,3,4,6
Porphyrula martinica Purple Gallinule S 1
Fulica americana americana American Coot C 1,2
Pluvialis squatarola Black-billed Plover S 1,2,3,6
Pluvialis fulva American Golden Plover C, SB 1,5
Charadrius semipalmatus Semipalmated Plover S 1,2,3,6
Charadrius vociferous vociferous Killdeer S, C 1,2,3,6
Himantopus mexicanus mexicanus Black-necked Stilt S,C 1,2,4
Tringa flavipes Lesser Yellowlegs C 1,2
Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Willet S 1,2,3,4
Heteroscelus incanus Wandering Tattler S, C, SB 1,2,3,5
Actitis macularia Spotted Sandpiper S, C 1,2,3,4,5
Numenius phaeopus hudsonicus Whimbrel S, C, SB 1,2,3,4,5,6
Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone C 1,2
Aphriza virgata Surfbird S 1,3
Calidris canutus rufa Red Knot S 1
Calidris alba Sanderling S, C 1,2,3
Calidris mauri Western Sandpiper S, C 1,2,3,4
Calidris minutilla Least Sandpiper S, C 1,4
Limnodromus scolopaceus Long-billed Dowitcher C 1,2,6
Phalaropus lobatus Red-Necked Phalarope C 1,2,6
Phalaropus fulicaria Red Phalarope S,C,SB,RP 1,2,3
Stercorarius pomarinus Pomarine Jaeger S 1,2,3,6
Stercorarius parasiticus Parasitic Jaeger C, RP 1,2
Stercorarius longicaudus Long-tailed Jaeger RG 2
Catharacta maccormicki South Polar Skua RG 2
Larus atricilla Laughing Gull S, C 1,2,3
Larus pipixcan Franklin’s Gull S 1,2,3,6
Larus philadelphia Bonaparte’s Gull RG 2
Larus heermanni Hermann’s Gull S 1,2,3
Larus delawarensis Ring-billed Gull S 1,3
Larus californicus California Gull S, SB 1,2,3,5,6
Larus argentatus smithsonianus Herring Gull S, C 1,2,3
Larus occidentalis wymani Western Gull S, C 1,2,3
Larus glaucescens Glaucous–winged Gull S 1,2,3,6
Larus sabini Sabine’s Gull SB 1,6
Sterna paradisaea Arctic Tern SB 1,2,5
Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern RP S, RP 1,2,3,5
Anous stolidus Brown Noddy S, RP S, RP 1,2,3,5,6
Gygis alba canadida White Tern S 1,2,3
Columba livia Feral Pidgeon S S 1,2,3
E Columbina passerina socorrensis Socorro Common Ground Dove S S 1,2,4,5,6
Zanaida macroura Mourning Dove S S 2,3,5,6
E Zenaida macroura clarionensis Murning Dove C C 1,4
E Zenaida graysoni † Socorro Dove S S 1,2,4,6
E Aratinga brevipes Socorro Parakeet S S 1,2,3,4,5,6
Crotophaga sulcirostris Groove-billed Ani S 1,2,3
Tyto alba Barn Owl RG, S 1,2,3,6
E Micrathene whitneyi graysoni † Socorro Elf Owl S S 1,2,3,6
E Athene cunicularia rostrata Burrowing Owl C C 1,2,4,5
Asio flammeus flammeus Short-eared Owl S 1,2
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Chaetura pelagica Chimney Swift RG 2
Chaetura sp. Swift sp. C 1,5
Ceryle alcyon Belted Kingfisher S, C 1,2,3,4
Sphyrapicus varius Yellow-bellied Sapsucker S 1
Sphyrapicus nuchalis Red-breasted Sapsucker S 1,3
Tachycineta bicolor Tree Swallow S 1
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern Rough-winged Swallow S 1,2,3
Stelgidopteryx ruficollis Southern Rough-winged Swallow S 6
Hirundo rustica erythrogaster Barn Swallow S, C, SB 1,2,3,4,5
E Corvus corax clarionensis Northern Raven C C, SB 1,2,4,5,6
Sitta canadensis Red-breasted Nuthatch RG 2
Salpinctes obsoletus Rock Wren RG 2
E Salpinctes obsoletus exsul † San Benedicto Rock Wren SB SB 1,4,6
E Troglodytes tanneri Clarion Wren C C 1,2,4,5
E Troglodytes sissonii Socorro Wren S S 1,2,3,4,5,6
Catharus ustulatus Swaison’s Thrush S 1,3
Mimus polyglottos leucopterus Northern Mockingbird S S 1,2,3,5,6
E Mimodes graysoni Socorro Mockingbird S S 1,2,3,4,5,6
Anthus rubescens American Pipit C,S 1,2,3
Bombycilla cedrorum Cedar Waxwing S 1,3
Sturnus vulgaris vulgaris European Starling S 1
Vireo griseus White-eyed Vireo S 1,2
Vermivora peregrina Tennessee Warbler S 1,2,3,6
E Parula pitiayumi graysoni Tropical Parula S S 1,2,3,4,5,6
Dendroica petechia Yellow Warbler S 1,2,3,6
Dendroica tigrina Cape May Warbler S 1,2
Dendroica coronata Yellow-rumped Warbler S, SB 1,2,3,6
Dendroica townsendi Townsend’s Warbler S 1,2,3,6
Dendroica virens Black-throated Green Warbler S 1,2,3,6
Dendroica palmarum Palm Warbler S, C 1,2
Dendroica castanea Bay-breasted Warbler SB 1,2,4,6
Dendroica striata Blackpoll Warbler S 1
Setophaga ruticilla American Redstart S, SB 1,2,3,6
Seiurus aurocapillus Ovenbird S 1
Seiurus noveboracensis Northern Watertrush RG 2
Geothlypis trichas Common Yellowthroat S, C 1,2
Wilsonia pusilla Wilson’s Warbler S 1,3
Piranga rubra Summer Tanager S 1,3
Pheucticus ludovicianus Rose-breasted Grosbeak S 1,2,3
Passerina cyanea Indigo Bunting S 1,2,3
Pipilo erythrophthalmus socorrensis Socorro Towhee S S 1,2,3,4,5,6
Chondestes grammacus Lark Sparrow S, C 1,2,3
Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus Yellow-headed Blackbid S 1,3
Molothrus ater Brown-headed Cowbird S 1,2,3
Icterus cucullatus Hooded Oriole S 1,2
Passer domesticus domesticus House Sparrow S 1,3
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Appendix IV.
Bird species list of the West-Mexican study area: Isla Isabel.
Information sources: 1 = Fox quesAdA et al. (2005), 2 = personal data by authors.
scientific name common name breeder non breeder Source
Oceanodroma melania Black Storm-Petrel × 1
Oceanodroma microsoma Least Storm-Petrel × 1
Phaethon aethereus mesonauta Red-billed Tropicbird × 1,2
Sula dactylatra Masked Booby × 1
Sula nebouxii nebouxii Blue-footed Booby × 1,2
Sula leucogaster Brown Booby × 1,2
Sula sula Red-footed Booby × 1
Pelecanus occidentalis Brown Pelican × 1,2
Phalacrocorax penicillatus Brandt’s Cormorant × 1
Fregata magnificens Magnificent Frigatebird × 1,2
Botaurus spec. Bittern × 1
Ardea herodias Great Blue Heron × 1,2
Egretta alba Great White Egret × 1
Egretta thula Snowy Egret × 1
Egretta rufescens Reddish Egret × 1
Bubulcus ibis ibis Cattle Egret × 1
Nycticorax nycticorax hoactli Black-crowned Night-Heron × 1
Nycticorax violaceus Yellow-crowned Night-Heron × 1
Anas discors Blue-winged Teal × 1
Accipiter striatus Sharp-shinned Hawk × 1,2
Caracara plancus Crested Caracara × 1
Falco sparverius American Kestrel × 1
Falco columbarius Merlin × 1
Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon × 1
Rallus spec. Rail × 1
Fulica americana americana American Coot × 1
Charadrius vociferous vociferous Killdeer × 1
Haematopus palliates American Oystercatcher × × 1,2
Himantopusmexicanus mexicanus Black-necked Stilt × 1
Tringa solitaria Solitary Sandpiper × 1
Catoptrophorus semipalmatus Willet × 1
Heteroscelus incanus Wandering Tattler × 1,2
Actitis macularia Spotted Sandpiper × 1
Numenius phaeopus hudsonicus Whimbrel × 1
Calidris mauri Western Sandpiper × 1
Calidris minutilla Least Sandpiper × 1
Phalaropus tricolor Wilson’s Phalarope × 1
Larus atricilla Laughing Gull × 1
Larus heermanni Heermann’s Gull × × 1,2
Larus californicus California Gull × 1
Larus argentatus smithsonianus Hering Gull × 1
Larus occidentalis wymani Western Gull × 1
Larus tridactylus pollicaris Black-legged Kittiwake × 1
Sterna elegans Elegant Tern × 1
Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern × 1
Anous stolidus Brown Noddy × 1
Columba livia Feral Pidgeon × 1
Zenaida asiatica mearnsi Western White-winged Dove × 1
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Columbina passerina pallescens Mexican Ground-Dove × 1,2
Leptotila verreauxi White-tipped Dove × 1
Crotophaga sulcirostris Groove-billed Ani × 1,2
Otus asio mccallii Eastern Screech Owl × 1
Athene cunicularia Burrowing Owl × 1
Nyctidromus albicollis insularis Tres Marias Pauraque × 1
Amazilia yucatanensis Buff-bellied Hummingbird × 1
Myiopagis viridicata minima Small Greenish Elania × 1
Contopus sordidulus Western Pewee × 1
Empidonax traillii Willow Flycatcher × 1
Empidonax difficili Pacific slope Flycatcher × 1
Pyrocephalus rubinus Vermilion Flycatcher × 1
E Myiarchus tuberculifer tresmariae Tres Maria Flycatcher × 1
Myiarchus cinerascens Ash-throated Flycatcher × 1
Myiarchus tyrannulus Brown-crested Flycatcher × 1
Tyrannus melancholicus Tropical Kingbird × 1
Tyrannus verticalis Western Kingbird × 1
Tyrannus forficatus Scissor-tailed Flycatcher × 1
Tachycineta albilinea albilinea Mangrove Swallow × 1
Stelgidopteryx serripennis Northern Rough-winged Swallow × 1
Regulus calendula Ruby-crowned Kinglet × 1
Polioptila caerulea Blue-grey Gnatcatcher × 2
Myadestes occidentalis Brown-backed Solitaire × 1
Catharus ustulatus Swaison’s Thrush × 1
Catharus guttatus Hermit Thrush × 1
Turdus rufopalliatus Rufous-backed Thrush × 1
Turdus migratorius American Robin × 1
Mimus polyglottos leucopterus Northern Mockingbird × 1
Vermivora celata Orange-crowned Warbler × 1
E Parula pitiayumi insularis Tres Marias Tropical Parula × 1,2
Dendroica petechia rubiginosa Alaska Yellow Warbler × 1
Dendroica coronata auduboni Audubon’s Warbler × 1
Dendroica townsendi Townsend’s Warbler × 1
Dendroica dominica Yellow-throated Warbler × 1
Seiurus aurocapillus Ovenbird × 1
Geothlypis trichas Common Yellowthroat × 1
Basileuterus lachrymosa Fan-tailed Warbler × 1
Piranga rubra Summer Tanager × 1
Cardinalis sinuatus Pyrrhuloxia × 1
Passerina caerulea Blue Grosbeak × 1
Volantinia jacarina spendens Blue-grey Grassquit × 1
Aimophila carpalis Rufous-winged Sparrow × 2
Chondestes grammacus Lark Sparrow × 1
Icterus bullockii Bullock’s Oriole × 1
Passer d. domesticus House Sparrow × 1
... Several biotic inventory studies have been conducted on the Tres Marías Islands, including of mammals, amphibians, reptiles, birds, terrestrial molluscs, coastal fish species, stony corals and vascular plants (Grayson, 1871;Merriam, 1898;Nelson, 1899;Stager, 1957;Zweifel, 1960;Grant & Cowan, 1964;Grant, 1965Grant, , 1966Northern, 1965;McDiarmid et al., 1976;García-Aldrete, 1986;Wilson, 1991;Casas-Andreu, 1992;Lenz, 1995;del Prado-Gasca et al., 2006;Pérez-Vivar et al., 2006;Comisión Nacional de Áreas Naturales Protegidas, 2007, 2022Erisman et al., 2011;Hahn et al., 2012;Nolasco-Luna et al., 2016). However, few biogeographical studies have been conducted on the biota of the Tres Marías Islands. ...
... A study of stony corals suggested that the Tres Marías Islands might act as a nodal point for coral dispersal to the north, and other studies of coral communities have assessed the importance of the Tres Marías Islands as a steppingstone for species and individuals to and from the Revillagigedo Archipelago, the Gulf of California and the tropical Mexican Pacific, and the entrance of the Gulf of California has been identified as a key area for the immigration of species (Pérez-Vivar et al., 2006;López-Pérez et al., 2015). Hahn et al. (2012) studied the biogeography of birds in Pacific Mexico along an isolation gradient from mainland Chamela (coastal Jalisco), through the Tres Marías Islands and the Revillagigedo Archipelago. Endemic land bird species increased from the mainland to Revillagigedo, whereas total landbird species decreased from Revillagigedo to mainland Chamela. ...
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The Tres Marías archipelago in the central Mexican Pacific is a protected area that has a complex geological history due to its tectonic setting. This study describes an integrative analysis of the biogeographical affinities of the biota inhabiting the islands. A biotic component analysis showed a close relationship between the islands and the Pacific Lowlands and Veracruzan biogeographical provinces, whereas a cladistic biogeographical analysis additionally showed a Nearctic affinity with the Sonoran biogeographical province. The biogeographical affinity patterns, based on the distribution of the sister group of each endemic species, revealed three distinct patterns: Neotropical, Sonoran-Neotropical and Nearctic-Neotropical. The study recognized that the Tres Marías Islands are a region of great biological complexity where the biota of the Pacific Lowlands and the Veracruzan provinces intersect, with a predominantly Neotropical affinity. In this biogeographical analysis, information on the biotic assemblage and the geological history of the Tres Marías Islands are integrated and discussed. The biotic assembly of the islands must have occurred via both vicariance and dispersal at different geological times, related to opening of the Gulf of California (Miocene–Pleistocene) as well as to periods of glaciation (Pleistocene).
... Brattstrom (1990) provided a preliminary account of the biogeography of the islands, based on vertebrate taxa. Hahn et al. (2012) conducted a biogeographic analysis of the birds on the Mexican Pacific coast, finding a correlation between the taxonomic hierarchy and the isolation gradient from the coast to the islands. Socorro island is located at 18.699°N and 110.942°W. ...
... The endemic flora is represented by Acianthera unguicallosa, Aristolochia socorroensis, Bidens socorrensis, Botrychium socorrense, Castilleja socorrensis, Cestrum pacificum, Coreocarpus insularis, Coreopsis insularis, Critoniopsis littoralis, Erigeron socorrensis, Ilex socorroensis, Muhlenbergia solisii and Salvia pseudomisella (Johnston 1931;Levin and Moran 1989;Ortega-Rubio et al. 1991;León-de la Luz et al. 1994;CONANP 2004;León-de la Luz and Chiang 2004;Flores-Palacios et al. 2009). Some animal species are endemic to Socorro (Palacios-Vargas et al. 1982;García-Aldrete et al. 1992;Galina-Tessaro et al. 1994;Jiménez et al. 1994;Félix Lizárraga et al. 2015), eg the grasshopper Schistocerca socorro, the lizard Urosaurus auriculatus, and the birds Mimus graysoni, Psittacara brevipes, Troglodytes sissonii and Zenaida graysoni, the last extinct in the wild (Castellanos and Rodríguez-Estrella 1993;Johnson and Clayton 2000;Song 2006;Hahn et al. 2012). Three introduced mammals (Felis catus, Mus musculus and Ovis orientalis) have been reported (Arnaud et al. 1993;Álvarez-Cárdenas et al. 2000;CONANP 2004;López-Higareda et al. 2014). ...
Article
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The biotic assembly of the Revillagigedo Archipelago, Mexico, was analysed under an evolutionary biogeographic framework. We undertook a parsimony analysis of endemicity with progressive character elimination of 194 plant and animal species, which allowed us to identify the archipelago as a complex area or node where Nearctic and Neotropical biotic components overlap. We undertook a cladistic biogeographic analysis using the phylogenetic information of 42 taxon-area cladograms, from which one general-area cladogram was obtained: (Revillagigedo, (Sonoran, (Baja California, (Veracruzan, Pacific Lowlands)))). These results suggest that the Revillagigedo Archipelago may be classified as a province, although we prefer to keep it as a district of the Pacific Lowlands province. We identified two cenocrons (temporally integrated set of taxa) that can be dated to the Pliocene–Pleistocene: one Nearctic that dispersed from the Baja California Peninsula, and another Neotropical where the species dispersed from the Pacific coast to the islands. The geological information and the general-area cladograms allowed us to propose a geobiotic scenario for the archipelago where the islands are probably the result of volcanism associated with the oceanic Mathematician Ridge, and the arrival of the cenocrons to the archipelago may have occurred during the Pliocene–Pleistocene, after the islands were available for colonisation.
... Second, during the Pleistocene, the TMA was closer to the mainland (24-32 km) than it is today (~95 km), because of sea-level lowering since then (Zweifel 1960). Of the 191 bird species recorded in the archipelago, 61 breed there and the other 130 comprise the terrestrial bird community (Grant and Cowan 1964, Grant 1965, Hahn et al. 2012). Most terrestrial bird species in the TMA have closely related populations distributed along the tropical deciduous and sub-deciduous forest in the nearby continental areas (Stager 1957) and differ from their mainland counterparts both phenotypically and genotypically, leading to the recognition of endemic subspecies for most of these resident forms (Grant 1965, Phillips 1981, Howell and Webb 1995, Peterson and Navarro-Sigüenza 2000, Cortés-Rodríguez et al. 2008, Smith et al. 2011, Arbeláez-Cortés et al. 2014b, Montaño-Rendón et al. 2015. ...
... The islands are covered mainly by tropical deciduous and sub-deciduous forest mixed with thorn scrub, mangroves, and cacti. The rainy season occurs from June to December (Grant 1965, Hahn et al. 2012. ...
Article
Studies in evolutionary biology have commonly been focused on insular systems because of their natural geographic isolation and relatively simpler biotas. Using mitochondrial DNA sequences of 4 passerine bird species distributed in the Tres Marías Archipelago (TMA) and the nearby mainland of western Mexico-Cardinalis cardinalis, Turdus rufopalliatus, Vireo hypochryseus, and Icterus pustulatus-we determined interspecific and intraspecific phylogenetic relationships between insular and mainland populations, conducted insular age-based time calibration for the estimation of divergence times, and used Bayesian analyses to examine the colonization history of islands. Specifically, we tested whether the study species from the TMA share the same colonization history since the emergence of the islands ∼120 kya, taking advantage of the reduced isolation due to sea-level fluctuations during the Pleistocene, or whether there were independent colonization events. We also looked for evidence in the genetic structure of the island populations that would support the idea of colonization by a small number of individuals. Phylogenetic relationships consistently recovered lineage divergence between the TMA and mainland populations, with strong support in 3 of the 4 species. Our estimates for the sea level and coastline of the west coast of Mexico during the Pleistocene showed that the distance between the TMA and the mainland was ∼25 km. We tested several island colonization scenarios according to the phylogenetic relationships, haplotype networks, divergence time estimates, historical demography, and different glaciation dates. The most supported scenario of colonization of the TMA suggests that a single event occurred ∼120 kya when the islands emerged, which is highly concordant with geological evidence, and simultaneously affected the 4 species.
... The proposal of elevating this taxon to species level has been discussed recently (de Silva et al. 2020). The destruction of native habitat, the introduction of exotic species, and reduced population sizes increase the vulnerability of birds on the Pacific Islands of Mexico and must be immediately addressed in conservation policies (Hahn et al. 2012;de Silva et al. 2020). ...
Article
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Background The Mesoamerican dominion is a biogeographic area of great interest due to its complex topography and distinctive climatic history. This area has a large diversity of habitats, including tropical deciduous forests, which house a large number of endemic species. Here, we assess phylogeographic pattern, genetic and morphometric variation in the Cinnamon Hummingbird complex Amazilia rutila , which prefers habitats in this region. This resident species is distributed along the Pacific coast from Sinaloa—including the Tres Marías Islands in Mexico to Costa Rica, and from the coastal plain of the Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico south to Belize. Methods We obtained genetic data from 85 samples of A. rutila , using 4 different molecular markers (mtDNA: ND2, COI; nDNA: ODC, MUSK) on which we performed analyses of population structure (median-joining network, STRUCTURE, F ST , AMOVA), Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses, and divergence time estimates. In order to evaluate the historic suitability of environmental conditions, we constructed projection models using past scenarios (Pleistocene periods), and conducted Bayesian Skyline Plots (BSP) to visualize changes in population sizes over time. To analyze morphometric variation, we took measurements of 5 morphological traits from 210 study skins. We tested for differences between sexes, differences among geographic groups (defined based on genetic results), and used PCA to examine the variation in multivariate space. Results Using mtDNA, we recovered four main geographic groups: the Pacific coast, the Tres Marías Islands, the Chiapas region, and the Yucatán Peninsula together with Central America. These same groups were recovered by the phylogenetic results based on the multilocus dataset. Demography based on BSP results showed constant population size over time throughout the A. rutila complex and within each geographic group. Ecological niche model projections onto past scenarios revealed no drastic changes in suitable conditions, but revealed some possible refuges. Morphometric results showed minor sexual dimorphism in this species and statistically significant differences between geographic groups. The Tres Marías Islands population was the most differentiated, having larger body size than the remaining groups. Conclusions The best supported evolutionary hypothesis of diversification within this group corresponds to geographic isolation (limited gene flow), differences in current environmental conditions, and historical habitat fragmentation promoted by past events (Pleistocene refugia). Four well-defined clades comprise the A. rutila complex, and we assess the importance of a taxonomic reevaluation. Our data suggest that both of A. r. graysoni (Tres Marías Islands) and A. r. rutila (Pacific coast) should be considered full species. The other two strongly supported clades are: (a) the Chiapas group (southern Mexico), and (b) the populations from Yucatán Peninsula and Central America. These clades belong to the corallirostris taxon, which needs to be split and properly named.
... El estudio de las comunidades avifaunísticas de la vertiente del Pacífico mexicano se ha concentrado en la reserva de la biosfera de Chamela-Cuixmala, Jalisco, en donde los temas principales han sido la riqueza, composición y distribución de las especies, especies invasoras, los patrones de migración altitudinal, dieta, relaciones ecológicas y la muda y clases de edades de las especies (Ramírez-Albores 2007, Guallar et al. 2009, Hahn et al. 2012, Ortega-Huerta y Vega-Rivera 2017, Almazán-Núñez et al. 2018a, Álvarez-Álvarez et al. 2018, Camacho-Cervantes y Schondube 2018). Fuera de esta área natural protegida, la riqueza avifaunística de dicha región ha sido estudiada en Guerrero (Navarro-Sigüenza 1992, Almazán-Núñez et. ...
Article
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La vertiente del Pacífico mexicano en el suroeste de Oaxaca alberga una gran diversidad de aves que ha sido poco estudiada. Presentamos un inventario y análisis de la avifauna de esa región, mediante transectos, redes de niebla y observaciones no sistemáticas, en 12 localidades repartidas en cuatro tipos de vegetación (selva mediana subcaducifolia, vegetación ribereña, áreas sujetas a manejo agropecuario y selva baja caducifolia). Contabilizamos 120 especies, correspondientes a 39 familias y 19 órdenes. Del total de especies, 72% fueron residentes todo el año y 24%, de invierno. Por el tipo de alimentación, las terrestres insectívoras (52%) fueron las más abundantes, seguidas de las carnívoras (20%) y terrestres herbívoras (15%). El mayor número de especies (68%) estuvo asociado a vegetación ribereña. Esta región de Oaxaca alberga 16% de la riqueza de aves de México, entre ellas a nueve especies endémicas o cuasiendémicas de México y 12 en categorías de riesgo a nivel nacional o internacional, como el pato real (Cairina moschata), loro corona lila (Amazona finschi), loro cabeza amarilla (Amazona oratrix) y vireo de Bell (Vireo bellii). Recomendamos la protección de la vegetación ribereña y de las selvas como la mejor estrategia para la conservación de la avifauna.
... We found no genetic evidence to indicate that individual peregrine (Table 1) (1989;Zann & Darjono, 1992). Furthermore, peregrine falcons are only visitors to the volcanic islands of Motmot (emerged in 1968, Ball & Glucksman, 1975Schipper, Shanahan, Cook, & Thornton, 2001) and Islas Revillagigedo (erupted in 1952;Hahn, Hogeback, Römer, & Vergara, 2012) and con tinue to be absent from Surtsey Island (emerged in 1963;Petersen, 2009). Although other volcanic islands have source populations in rel atively close geographic proximity, peregrine falcons breeding in the Aleutian Islands are primarily nonmigratory with only some mid winter interisland movement and juvenile dispersal (White, 1975;White et al., 2002). ...
Article
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How populations and communities reassemble following disturbances are affected by a number of factors, with the arrival order of founding populations often having a profound influence on later populations and community structure. Kasatochi Island is a small volcano located in the central Aleutian archipelago that erupted violently August 8, 2008, sterilizing the island of avian biodiversity. Prior to the eruption, Kasatochi was the center of abundance for breeding seabirds in the central Aleutian Islands and supported several breeding pairs of peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus). We examined the reestablishment of peregrine falcons on Kasatochi by evaluating the genetic relatedness among legacy samples collected in 2006 to those collected posteruption and to other falcons breeding along the archipelago. No genotypes found in posteruption samples were identical to genotypes collected from pre-eruption samples. However, genetic analyses suggest that individuals closely related to peregrine falcons occupying pre-eruption Kasatochi returned following the eruption and successfully fledged young; thus, a genetic legacy of pre-eruption falcons was present on posteruption Kasatochi Island. We hypothesize that the rapid reestablishment of peregrine falcons on Kasatochi was likely facilitated by behavioral characteristics of peregrine falcons breeding in the Aleutian Islands, such as year-round residency and breeding site fidelity, the presence of an abundant food source (seabirds), and limited vegetation requirements by seabirds and falcons.
... Nicotiana nesophila and N. stocktonii are endemic to the isolated Revillagigedo Islands off the Pacific coast of Mexico 24 . Hawkmoths are present on these islands 34,35 , but hummingbirds have not been recorded in recent surveys 36 . There was a single potential sighting of a hummingbird in a survey from 1897 37 . ...
Article
Polyploidy is an important driving force in angiosperm evolution, and much research has focused on genetic, epigenetic and transcriptomic responses to allopolyploidy. Nicotiana is an excellent system in which to study allopolyploidy because half of the species are allotetraploids of different ages, allowing us to examine the trajectory of floral evolution over time. Here, we study the effects of allopolyploidy on floral morphology in Nicotiana, using corolla tube measurements and geometric morphometrics to quantify petal shape. We show that polyploid morphological divergence from the intermediate phenotype expected (based on progenitor morphology) increases with time for floral limb shape and tube length, and that most polyploids are distinct or transgressive in at least one trait. In addition, we show that polyploids tend to evolve shorter and wider corolla tubes, suggesting that allopolyploidy could provide an escape from specialist pollination via reversion to more generalist pollination strategies.
... , 1949; Richards y Brattstrom, 1959). Respecto a los estudios biológicos, éstos han incluido diversos grupos taxonómicos terrestres (Ortega et al., 1992) de la flora (Johnston, 1931; Flores-Palacios et al., 2009), incluyendo a las cactáceas (Brattstrom, 1953), y de fauna, como los artrópodos (Palacios-Vargas, 1982; Cano-Santana et al., 2005) y vertebrados como: reptiles (Brattstrom, 1955), aves (Anthony, 1898; Brattstrom y Howell, 1956; Jehl y Parker, 1982; Santaella y Sada, 1991; Hahn et al., 2012) y mamíferos (McLellan, 1926). También se ha evaluado parte de la hidrobiología de las islas (e.g., Villalobos, 1960; Holguín-Quiñones et al., 1992; Holgín-Quiñones, 1994), con énfasis en algas (Albert y Lyon, 1930; Serviere-Zaragoza et al., 2007), corales (Reyes Bonilla y Carriquiry, 1994; Ketchum y Reyes-Bonilla, 1997), anélidos (Rioja, 1959), moluscos (Strong y Dallas, 1930; Mille-Pagaza et al., 1994), equinodermos (Ziesenhenne, 1937; Caso, 1962) y decápodos (Mille-Pagaza et al., 2003). ...
... and L. livens), pericota (Sterna fuscata), and rabijunco (Phaethon aethereus); the last two are considered as endangered species. Besides, more than 80 sea bird species have been spotted while feeding or resting in the island [3]. This community may reach tens of thousands of birds, and their excretions provide a rich N and P input to the lake [4]. ...
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Isabel Lake is a moderate saline soda crater lake located in Isabel Island in the eastern tropical Pacific coast of Mexico. Lake is mainly formed by rainfall and is strongly affected by evaporation and high input of nutrients derived from excretions of a large bird community inhabiting the island. So far, only the island macrobiota has been studied. The knowledge of the prokaryotic biota inhabiting the upper layers of this meromictic lake can give clues for the maintenance of this ecosystem. We assessed the diversity and composition of prokaryotic community in sediments and water of the lake by DGGE profiling, 16S rRNA gene amplicon pyrosequencing, and cultivation techniques. The bacterial community is largely dominated by halophilic and halotolerant microorganisms. Alpha diversity estimations reveal higher value in sediments than in water (P > 0.005). The lake water is dominated by γ-Proteobacteria belonging to four main families where Halomonadaceae presents the highest abundance. Aerobic, phototrophic, and halotolerant prokaryotes such as Cyanobacteria GPIIa, Halomonas, Alcanivorax, Idiomarina, and Cyclobacterium genera are commonly found. However, in sediment samples, Formosa, Muricauda, and Salegentibacter genera corresponding to Flavobacteriaceae family accounted for 15-20 % of the diversity. Heterotrophs like those involved in sulfur cycle, Desulfotignum, Desulfuromonas, Desulfofustis, and Desulfopila, appear to play an important role in sediments. Finally, a collection of aerobic halophilic bacterial isolates was created from these samples; members of the genus Halomonas were predominantly isolated from lake water. This study contributes to state the bacterial diversity present in this particular soda saline crater lake.
Article
We present a comprehensive and update checklist systematic of the icthyofauna of this insular region, which is comprised by 366 species, 241 genera, 101 families, 28 orders and tree classes. The families with the most richness specific were: Carangidae (20 spp.), Serranidae (19) and Muraenidae (18). Socorro Island was recorded 220 species, Clarion Island 179, San Benedicto Island 128; followed by Roca Partida Island 62. This diversity as well as endemic species number is relationship with the surface of each island. There is a higher similarity ictiofaunistic between Clarion Island and Socorro Island; while, the lowest similarity was between San Benedicto Island and Roca Partida Island. The ichthyogeography of the Revillagigedo Archipelago has a higher affinity with the Panamic province (42.3%), followed by the Cortes (41.5%). A higher number of species are of the wide distribution (circumglobal: 21 %; amphipacific 22.4 %). Also, endemic species are represented by 26 species (7.1%).
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Socorro Island, the largest and biologically most diverse of the four islands of the Revillagigedo Archipelago (Brattstrom 1990), confronts serious problems related to human activities. Eight endemic taxa of land birds now breed on Socorro: Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Nyctanassa violacea gravirostris; Socorro Red-tailed Hawk, Buteo jamaicensis socorronensis; Socorro Ground Dove, Columbina passerina socorroensis; Green Parakeet, Aratinga holochlora brevipes; Socorro Wren, Thryomanes sissonii; Socorro Mockingbird, Miraodes graysoni; Tropical Parula Warbler, Parula pitiayumi graysoni; and Socorro Towhee, Pipilo erythrophtalmus socorroensis (McLellan 1926, Jehl and Parkes 1982, Brattstrom 1990). Jehl and Parkes (1983) have proposed that domestic cats (Fells catus), introduced since 1957, are responsible for the extirpation of the endemic Socorro Dove, Zenaida graysoni, and reductions of other species, especially the Socorro Mockingbird. However, no quantitative data on predation by feral cats on Socorro Island have been previously reported in the literature. We present here an analysis of the diet of feral cats on Socorro Island. Socorro Island, located approximately 450 km south of the tip of the peninsula of Baja California, covers about 14,000 hectares (16 x 11 km). This island is a volcanic cone whose highest point is Mount Evermann (1050 m). Climate is arid tropical with an average annual temperature of 24.8 ø C and average annual precipitation of 327.7 mm. Fresh water is found in the puddles formed after tropical storms and continuously in several caves. From 16 to 28 February and from 7 to 12 May 1990 we conducted our field research on Socorro Island, intensively searching for scats, tracks, and other indirect evidence of feral cats, specially in the south portion of the island. We searched in Croton scrub (40 m elevation), disturbed grassland, and forest (650 m elevation). Presumably, the scats we found were from different individuals, as they were widely dispersed. We found and analyzed 31 scats, comparing the remains of scales, bones, feathers, and hairs with those of the collection of Centro de Investigaciones Bio16gicas. Table 1 shows the occurrence of items in 31 scats found during February and May 1990. Feral cats were feeding mainly on House Mice (Mus musculus), endemic lizards (Urosaurus a u riculatus), some birds, and also crabs, insects, scorpions, and various vegetable materials (Table 1). Birds were present in 22.6% of the cat scats (February and May samples combined). The Socorro Ground Dove and Tropical Parula Warbler were the two bird species found most often in the scats, five and three times, respectively. A recent colonizer, the Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura), was present in two of the 31 analyzed scats. Although we did not find remains of another recent colonizer, the Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottus), in May we found feathers of one in the field, presumably eaten by a feral cat. Jehl and Parkes (1982) reported predation by cats on Townsend's Shearwater (Puffinus auricularis), but we did not find evidence of this perhaps because our searches were not made near the shearwater colonies. Our results suggest that predation on birds by feral cats is not very important. However, even limited predation may seriously affect a species as endangered as the Socorro Mockingbird. This species' population may be approximately 60-70 pairs (Castellanos and Rodriguez-Estrella 1990, L. Baptista pers. comm.), and we found evidence that it is preyed upon by Socorro Red-tailed Hawks (a Socorro Mockingbird
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Among 17 breeding species recorded from the Juan Fernández Archipelago eight breeding species are endemic and eight of it are included in the Chilenian Red Data lists. The situation is highly critical for Aphrastura masafuerae and Sephanoides fernandensis. Introduced mammals have significant impact on breeding birds. Rats, cats, dogs, and coatis represent direct predation threats to the avifauna; feral rabbits and goats have influence by changing the habitats. Since eradication of introduced mammals is difficult, campaigns should start with goats on Alejandro Selkirk and rabbits on Robinson Crusoe and Santa Clara. Domestic cat numbers should be reduced in the settlement San Juan Bautista. As on Santa Clara eradication of all introduced mammals seems possible, it may function as a natural refuge for endangered seabird species.
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The endemic dove Zenaida graysoni of Socorro Island, an oceanic island in the Pacific south of Baja California, became extirpated between 1958-1978, and the endemic mockingbird Mimodes graysoni diminished during the same years and was approaching extinction by 1981. The mainland mourning dove Z. macroura became established on Socorro between (probably) 1971-1978, and the mainland northern mockingbird Mimus polyglottos between 1978-1981. Extermination of the endemics was probably caused by predation by feral cats Felis catus introduced in 1957 or later. There is no evidence of any actual competition between the pairs of species, and their preferred habitats overlap only slightly. The nearly concurrent establishment of the two invading species, known to have occurred frequently as casual visitors to Socorro and other islands, is attributed largely to the provision of fresh water made available as a result of human settlement.-from Authors
Article
Island biogeography is the study of the distribution and dynamics of species in island environments. Due to their isolation from more widespread continental species, islands are ideal places for unique species to evolve, but they are also places of concentrated extinction. Not surprisingly, they are widely studied by ecologists, conservationists and evolutionary biologists alike. There is no other recent textbook devoted solely to island biogeography, and a synthesis of the many recent advances is now overdue. This second edition builds on the success and reputation of the first, documenting the recent advances in this exciting field and explaining how islands have been used as natural laboratories in developing and testing ecological and evolutionary theories. In addition, the book describes the main processes of island formation, development and eventual demise, and explains the relevance of island environmental history to island biogeography. The authors demonstrate the huge significance of islands as hotspots of biodiversity, and as places from which disproportionate numbers of species have been extinguished by human action in historical time. Many island species are today threatened with extinction, and this work examines both the chief threats to their persistence and some of the mitigation measures that can be put in play with conservation strategies tailored to islands.
Article
Isla Socorro is in a state of change as a result of increased human activities since 1958 and the introduction of domestic animals. Nine endemic avian taxa have been described for Socorro. In the past 20 yr, several of these have shown sharp declines, largely attributable to predation by domestic cats Felis catus. Pipilo erythrophthalmus socorroensis seems far less common than in the recent past. Mimodes graysoni, once described as the most common landbird on Socorro, is extremely rare and local and its condition seems precarious. Zenaida graysoni is apparently extinct. Thryomanes sissonii, Aratinga holochlora brevipes, Columbina passerina socorroensis and Parula pitiayumi graysoni remain common; indeed the warbler may have increased. Two species have invaded Socorro. Zenaida macroura became well established between 1971-78 and Mimus polyglottos between 1978-81. Resident landbirds are absent from San Benedicto but seabird numbers have increased since the eruption of Volcan Barcena in 1952. Notes on 25 species recorded for the first time are included. -from Authors
Chapter
This chapter discusses notable contributions to the knowledge of the ecology of island landbirds, mainly in the northern hemisphere along with the research on Galapagos finches and landbirds on Australian islands. The protocol for future ecological studies of island landbirds is presented. Interspecific competition represents interactions between species for any shared resource likely to be in limited supply. The diversity of resources available is usually considered less on islands than on mainland areas. The degree of saturation of an island landbird fauna refers to the extent to which an island is stocked with landbird species relative to the area of the island and the variety of resources that it offers. Coupled with this last concept are two processes: how often do species of landbirds immigrate to islands and once there, how frequently do populations become extinct. The chapter discusses the frequency of the change in the composition of the breeding landbird fauna of a particular island changes.
Article
Diamond, J. M. (Physiology Department, University of California Medical Center, Los Angeles, California 90024) 1977. Continental and insular speciation in Pacific land birds. Syst. Zool. 26:263-268. —Three modes of allopatric speciation can be distinguished, depending on whether the isolating geographic barrier is within a single land mass (“continental speciation”), between islands of the same archipelago, or between different archipelagoes (“insular speciation”). The contributions of these three modes to speciation in Pacific land birds are analyzed. Continental speciation in birds has occurred in no Pacific land mass smaller than Australia, New Guinea, and possibly New Zealand; intraarchipelagal speciation has occurred only on six of the most remote archipelagoes; and inter-archipelagal speciation has produced most of the sympatric bird species pairs from the Bismarcks to Samoa. The frequency of each mode depends on area and isolation of the island, and on mobility and perhaps population density of the taxa involved. What is an “island” to some taxa may be a “continent” to others. For example, New Caledonia behaves as a continent to higher plants, insects, and lizards, but not to birds or ferns. [Speciation; Pacific land birds.]
Article
The Islas Revillagigedo consist of four volcanic, oceanic islands located 400 miles west of Colima, Mexico. The islands in order of increasing size are: Roca Partida, San Benedicto, Clarion, Socorro. The terrestrial fauna of the islands is depauperate and disharmonic and consists of birds, three species of reptiles, and flying and rafting arthropods. Many of the species of sea birds and shore birds are cosmopolitan or cosmotropic, while the plants, reptiles and land birds show their greatest affinity to the mainland Sonora-Sinaloa are of Mexico. Prevailing currents in the Gulf of California favour chance dispersal to the islands. The percentage of the biota which is endemic is high. The degree of endemism of birds seems to be favoured by the size of the island and the diversity of habitats, while endemism and success of establishment by reptiles seems favoured by the age of the island. This seems consistent with methods of dispersal (flying versus rafting). There is no evidence of adaptive radiation of the terrestrial vertebrates within the islands. Recent introductions of exotic species have upset the apparent stability of the fauna and flora of these islands.