title: Seasonality, biology and threats to Sicalis luteola (Sparrman, 1789) (Aves, Thraupidae) in northeastern Brazil.
abstract: Sicalis luteola occurs from Mexico to South America. In the Northeastern Brazilian region its biology, population dynamics and threats are poorly known. The subspecies S. luteola luteiventris apparently migrates northward during austral winter. The specific aims of this work were: 1) to verify the seasonality of the species; 2) to analyze information on molting and breeding, and 3) to check the main threats to this bird in northeastern Brazil. The highest number of records were in March, April, and May (51.12%) and the lowest in November and December (3%).We found a greater population peak in April in the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Ceará, and in April and May in Pernambuco. In Paraíba there was not an apparent seasonal variation in frequency. We captured 66 individuals, all adults, being 38 males and 28 females. 30% of the captured birds showed contour feathers molt, mainly on the head. A total of 23 individuals had brood patch, all being females. Six nests were found and four contained two to three eggs. We found that the main threat is the illegal trade. Our findings may support conservation plans for this bird in the region.
authors: Programa de Pós-graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFPE, Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n, CEP 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil.
authors: G A
authors: GA
authors: Pereira
authors: Departamento de Zoologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco - UFPE, Avenida Professor Moraes Rego, 1235, Cidade Universitária, CEP 50670-420, Recife, PE, Brazil.
authors: M E
authors: ME
authors: Larrazábal
authors: Programa de Pós-graduação em Etnobiologia e Conservação da Natureza, Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco - UFPE, Rua Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n, CEP 52171-900, Recife, PE, Brazil.
authors: S M
authors: SM
authors: Azevedo-Júnior
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001938:Brazil; D003132:Commerce; D003247:Conservation of Natural Resources; D005260:Female; D000071421:Life History Traits; D008297:Male; D012098:Reproduction; D012621:Seasons; D020308:Songbirds / Q000502:physiology*