Reserva Ecológica Arenillas: Un área clave para la conservación de aves del surcciodente de Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: The Arenillas Ecological Reserve (REA) in El Oro, Ecuador, is vital for biodiversity conservation in the southwestern part of the country, but lacked an official list of its bird species. This work addressed that need through a detailed inventory of the avifauna of the REA, compiling data from scientific literature, citizen science databases, and expert consultations. A total of 261 bird species from 56 families and 24 orders were identified, highlighting the ecological importance of the REA. Endemic, migratory and threatened species were also found, highlighting the urgency of implementing conservation measures. Aspects such as endemism, conservation status and environmental sensitivity were analyzed. However, this work recognizes limitations such as lack of updated data, methodological variability among the studies consulted, highlighting the need to continuously and systematically monitor the avifauna in the REA. It identified the need for more in-depth and updated studies to address information gaps, allowing for more effective management of the reserve. This work is fundamental for prioritizing protection actions and developing conservation policies.