Conservation of tropical birds: Mission possible?

Abstract

Worldwide habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation are operating on a massive scale - and are accelerating. Many scientific studies have shown or predicted that such habitat destruction will have dire consequences for the future of global biodiversity. Habitat loss in the tropics especially is unprecedented, which is of particular concern because the tropics have the greatest diversity and are centers of endemism. We briefly review bird losses due to land-use changes in the tropics. We also discuss the likely effects of invasives, fire, overharvesting, and climate change on tropical birds. We conclude with a discussion of options for tangible conservation of tropical birds. © Dt. Ornithologen-Gesellschaft e.V. 2007.