Applying new bio-logging and analytical tools to study the movement ecology and conservation of birds in the caatinga biome, Brazil

• Grant number: 18/19389-9
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Young Investigators Grants
• Start date: March 01, 2020
• End date: February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Ecology
• Agreement: Max Planck Society for the Advancement of Science
• Principal Investigator: Francisco Voeroes Dénes
• Grantee: Francisco Voeroes Dénes
• Principal researcher abroad: Martin Wikelski
• Institution abroad: Max Planck Society, Dresden, Germany
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Carlos David da Silva Oliveira dos Santos ; Kamran Safi ; Paulo Inácio de Knegt López de Prado ; Thiago Filadelfo Miranda
• Associated scholarship(s): 24/06332-0 - Using the network approach to understand the spatial-use patterns by the Lear's macaw and four species of vulture in Caatinga, BP.PD; 24/00577-0 - Comunicar Ciência: Reporting of the activities carried out by the Movement Ecology Laboratory (ECO MOVE/USP)., BP.JC; 24/04642-1 - Homerange and habitat selection of vultures in the Caatinga, BP.MS; + associated scholarships 24/03276-1 - Technical support to research on movement ecology and conservation of birds in the Caatinga biome, Brazil, BP.TT; 24/02721-1 - Spatial distribution and movement ecology to assess protected area effectiveness for the Lear's macaw and four vulture species in northern Bahia, BP.MS; 23/01452-4 - Technical research support and scientific communication in movement ecology for bird conservation in Northeastern Brazil, BP.TT; 22/01570-4 - Technical support to research on movement ecology and conservation of birds in the Caatinga biome, Brazil, BP.TT; 21/14510-7 - Home range and habitat selection of the endangered Lear's Macaw (Anodorhynchus leari): perspectives from movement ecology, BP.MS; 21/02132-8 - Assessing turbine collision hazard for the Lear's macaw and four vulture species in the Caatinga, BP.PD; 20/03177-2 - Applying new bio-logging and analytical tools to study the Movement Ecology and Conservation of birds in the caatinga biome, Brazil, BP.JP - associated scholarships

Abstract

Using new bio-logging technology, researchers can now answer questions about the behavior, ecology and physiology of wild animals, particularly for wide-ranging or cryptic species, which have previously evaded examination. Many of these research questions are now investigated in the expanding field of Movement Ecology. Conservation scientists and practitioners are increasingly relying on movement ecology studies aid in understanding the threats and causes of population declines. This proposal describes a research program in Movement Ecology and Conservation that will explore the ecology and conservation of birds in the Caatinga biome in Brazil. The endemic and globally endangered Lear's macaw (Anodorhynchus leari) and four New-World vulture species will serve as models to address questions related to (1) the fundamental ecology of long-lived and wide-ranging avian frugivores and scavengers, (2) their ecosystem services, (3) human-wildlife conflicts, and (4) conservation planning based on Movement Ecology. The research program also aims to foster the development of the discipline of Movement Ecology in Brazil though mentoring of students, teaching of a graduate-level course at the host institution, and organizing of an academic symposium and workshops. We will disseminate the research results to multiple audiences through an outreach website, and participation in radio and in-person events focused on the rural communities in the study area. (AU)