Avian Communities in Forest Fragments and Reforestation Areas Associated with Banana Plantations in Costa Rica

Background

This study evaluates the avian diversity value of reforested and secondary forest fragments in a matrix of banana plantations in Caribbean Costa Rica. In Costa Rica, banana producers (Dole and Delmonte) retain riparian buffer forests in addition to reforestation on lands removed from production. Zygia longifolia dominated reforested and secondary forest fragments. 

Research Goals & Methods

Of the more than 400 birds observed at nearby primary forest of La Selva, this study observed 206 species in reforested/secondary fragments in the plantation zone.

Conclusions & Takeaways

This study observed few birds classified as medium and high susceptibility to disturbance. However, the authors note that several species of large frugivores and understory insectivores, taxa that are frequently cited as rare in disturbed forests, were recorded in the plantation/reforestation fragments.