Birds of Fazenda Domiciana (São Paulo, Brazil): a valuable and overlooked remnant of the inland Atlantic Forest

Abstract

The Semi-deciduous Seasonal Forest is the Atlantic Forest formation that has lost the greatest proportion of its original area and harbors an avifauna highly susceptible to distributional shifts and local extinctions. This study aimed to survey the bird species occurring at Fazenda Domiciana (2,595 ha), located in southwestern Brazil, to evaluate current management actions and to propose conservation measures for the restoration of its extensive Semi-deciduous Seasonal Forest remnant (1,705.4 ha). In the field, we assessed the property’s management practices and recorded birds using standard ornithological methods. We recorded 242 species in loco and 10 additional species from the literature, totaling 252 species. Of these, 28 are endemic to the Atlantic Forest, and two are classified as threatened. Most recorded species are resident, rare, and forest-dependent. The secondary vegetation in an intermediate stage of regeneration supported the highest species richness. No signs of hunting, logging, or recent fires were observed, and tree regeneration in pasture areas has been vigorous for decades. Even with the reactivation of pastoral activities, the regenerating areas will be preserved. Fazenda Domiciana represents a significant opportunity for biodiversity conservation. We recommend implementing a rewilding program, establishing two forest corridors, and controlling the spread of exotic plant species.