Rarity of birds in the Jaú National Park, Brazilian Amazon

Abstract

The rarity patterns of 368 bird species recorded in the Jaú National Park (JNP), Brazilian Amazon, were analysed using the method of seven forms of rarity based on the interaction of geographical distribution, habitat specificity, and local population size. Rare species were identified in a wide taxonomic, ecologic and body size spectrum, indicating the complexity of distinguishing rare and common species. Birds with large populations tended to occupy several habitats in a highly significant relationship. General rarity was not correlated with body size. Birds foraging in ground, understory and antbirds (Thamnophilidae and Formicariidae), were identified as especially rare in JNP. The method of seven forms of rarity is useful as a first step in identifying rare species for conservation purposes since it considers several biological features at once.