I here evaluate the conservation status of 64 species of diurnal raptors in Venezuela based on extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) derived from geomatic-based geographic distribution modeling and gap analysis. I modeled the geographic distribution of raptor species to quantify distribution areas using the maximum entropy modeling techniques with nine environmental variables that were believed to influence the geographic distribution of raptors. The EOO and AOO were used to reevaluate the conservation status of diurnal raptors in Venezuela, applying Criteria B of the IUCN Red List. Furthermore, a gap analysis was performed to evaluate the effectiveness of strictly protected areas (SPA) in the conservation of birds of prey. EOO ranged from 10,423 km2 to 907,223 km2 and AOO values ranged from 6566 km2 to 903,193 km2; four species met the B1 criterion and are qualified to be reclassified. The gap analysis revealed that, on average, 20% and 24% of species’ EOO and AOO, respectively, were protected within SPA. In theory, SPA are assuming an effective role in the protection of species’ geographic distribution. Raptor conservation in Venezuela must be thoroughly planned; an update in land-use planning (territorial ordering) to enhance the connectivity among SPA would improve the protection of raptors.
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1 December 2015
Conservation Status of Diurnal Raptors in Venezuela
Adrián Naveda-Rodríguez
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Journal of Raptor Research
Vol. 49 • No. 4
December 2015
Vol. 49 • No. 4
December 2015
Accipitriformes
area of occupancy
Cathartiformes
Extent of occurrence
Falconiformes
Neotropic
Venezuela