Extreme weather events as agents of natural local extinction of bird populations in riparian forests

Abstract

Natural history comprises important biological aspects in the establishment of public policies for biodiversity conservation. Climate change has expanded this challenge, making it necessary to evaluate and predict its negative impacts on biological systems. In this context, we evaluated the effect that floods have on the reproductive success of birds like the Amazonian motmot (Momotus momota), rufous-tailed jacamar (Galbula ruficauda), and swallow tanager (Tersina viridis) that nest on the banks of the Maria Lucinda stream in the municipality of Morrinhos, state of Goiás, Brazil. We identified, measured, and monitored 87 nests over five years. Predation represented the main cause of nest losses, with more significant rates for rufous-tailed jacamar (21%) and swallow tanager (21%). However, the record rain of October 2021 resulted in increased volume of the Maria Lucinda stream causing considerable losses of low-height nests, highlighting the vulnerability of this group of birds to climate change. The study emphasizes the need for stricter conservation policies of riparian forests — environments considered relevant in providing ecosystem services.