Assessing the Relative Impacts of Roadkill and Nest Poaching on the Population Viability of the Blue-and-Yellow Macaw, Ara ararauna (Aves: Psittaciformes), in a Brazilian National Park

A study reveals that the blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna) in Brazil's Emas National Park faces critical population viability risks due to roadkill and nest poaching, potentially leading to extinction within a decade. The research models population dynamics under these threats, showing that 5000 individuals are needed for viability when both factors are considered. Roadkill alone requires 4500–7500 birds, while nest poaching demands 2000. The model highlights sensitivity to female reproduction age and adult survival rates, underscoring how human activities threaten even highly mobile species in protected areas.

Carvalho-Roel, C. F., & Júnior, O. M. (2021). Assessing the Relative Impacts of Roadkill and Nest Poaching on the Population Viability of the Blue-and-Yellow Macaw, Ara ararauna (Aves: Psittaciformes), in a Brazilian National Park. Diversity, 13(12), 652. https://doi.org/10.3390/d13120652