Where is the symbol of Brazilian Ornithology? The geographic distribution of the Golden Parakeet (Guarouba guarouba - Psittacidae)

Abstract

The Golden Parakeet (Guarouba guarouba) is a poorly known, endangered psittacid endemic to the Brazilian Amazon. We examined point records of the species to identify possible temporal changes in its occurrence and to model its potential distribution. It is known from roughly 70 localities. After 1987, new records extend the known distribution considerably to the southwest, whereas regions at the eastern end of the range do not contain recent records. We interpret the former as improved knowledge of the true historical distribution based on increased sampling, and the latter as a genuine range retraction, best explained by deforestation in that region. We estimate the species' current area of occurrence at 340,000 km2, embracing less than 65% of its original range. Distribution models predict a potential distribution of the Golden Parakeet throughout a region of relatively low humidity, at the interface between lowland and submontane rainforest at the border of the Brazilian Shield. This distribution coincides with the colonization frontier ("arc of deforestation") in the Amazon, which places the species' future in serious risk. Existing and planned parks and reserves in the Tapajos River region appear to offer the best hope for protection of currently known populations. Furthermore, we hope that our distribution model leads to intensive searches and discovery of populations previously unknown and to improved understanding of habitat preference and niche.