Environmental impacts of urban avifauna in the parks “La Madre” and “El Espigón” in Manta, Ecuador
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29076/issn.2528-7737vol19iss51.2026pp52-64pKeywords:
urban birds, environmental impacts, urban wildlife management, conservationAbstract
The increasing abundance of birds in urban spaces represents an environmental and health dilemma. To assess these effects, avifauna communities and their impacts were studied in two parks in Manta, Ecuador: "La Madre" and "El Espigón." Monitoring was carried out between January and May 2025 using point counts. A total of 7,109 individuals were recorded in "La Madre" Park and 2025 in "El Espigón," with a species richness of 23 and 29, respectively (19 shared; Is = 70.3). "La Madre" Park showed the highest density (evening averages of 2,030 birds/month), dominated by the domestic pigeon (Columba livia), indicating a high presence of synanthropic species. In contrast, "El Espigón" presented greater diversity, with a dominance of Zenaida auriculata and Quiscalus mexicanus, reflecting better natural conditions. The Leopold Matrix identified 17 negative impacts (pollution from excrement, noise, and infrastructure deterioration) and 10 positive impacts. The SWOT analysis allowed for the development of technical strategies for bird population management. The proposal is to promote scientific ecotourism, implement environmental education campaigns, and integrate management plans. These actions are crucial for harmonizing bird conservation with public health and sustainable urban planning
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