Bird community as an indicator of biodiversity: results from quantitative surveys in Brazil

This short review presents the results obtained in several localities of Br azil on the composition of forest bird communities. Data were collected sin ce the late 80's, after we introduced a new methodology of quantitative sur vey, based on acoustic identification and unlimited-radius point census. Al though these data are still scattered. they show uniquely precise and coher ently comparative patterns of composition of forest bird communities. Our m ethodology has the advantage of being absolutely non-disturbing, highly eff icient in the held and immediately processed. Results confirm that the stru cture of a bird community is a good indicator of biodiversity, particularly useful where biodiversity is high. Many of these data are available only i n unpublished dissertations and abstracts of congress communications, or ar e bring analysed. A cooperative program is needed to promote new surveys an d publish their results, as a contribution for measuring and monitoring bio diversity, especially in complex endangered habitats.