Birds of the University del Magdalena campus, Santa Marta, Colombia

Abstract

186 species of birds (41 families) were recorded at the University of Magdalena, Santa Marta, Colombia, from May 2007 to April 2008. The species were categorized by migratory status, evidence, class of habitat, feeding behavior and record frequency. 38 species were resident, 77 transitory, and 72 migratory with nesting and breeding populations in North America. A monitoring programme of migratory birds was conducted within the project in the Colombo-Caribbean region for a year. 114 species were described as uncommon or occasional visitors to the campus. We recorded different mating events in 29 species throughout the year. 6 other migratory were recorded, which are classified as endangered according to the decrease in their nesting populations in North America. The records confirm the importance of the conservation of the dry forests for the preservation of migratory bird populations on their arrival to the northern Caribbean-Coast of Colombia, mainly of their approach to the urban zones of Santa Marta.