Abel Hernández-Muñoz Knihy

The book describes the evolution of birdwatching, a fundamentally recreational pastime, relatively harmless to birds, with high levels of participation and generating significant economic contributions for some countries.It describes the characteristics of the Spiritan nature and its avifauna, in the context of the insular Caribbean.The enclaves of greater wealth in ornithological resources in the provincial territory are identified. The stages of development of this type of tourism and the associated itineraries are defined.It concludes by describing the impacts of birdwatching tourism on the ornithological resources and the local host communities.

The study focuses on the bird community within a pine forest in the Lomas de Banao Ecological Reserve, conducted in March and April 2020. It employs a point-count methodology to identify 32 bird species across 11 orders and 18 families, highlighting the dominance of Parulidae, Icteridae, and Tyrannidae. The research explores the relationship between bird populations and vegetation structure, revealing significant associations between certain bird species and specific plant types, particularly Sylviculture and Callophillum antillanum.

Coastal forests, known as mangroves, are vital ecosystems comparable to tropical rainforests, boasting remarkable biodiversity and productivity. Their unique aerial roots create a protective network in saltwater environments, serving as vital habitats for various species, including fish and birds, essential for human sustenance. These forests play a crucial role in coastal erosion prevention and offer numerous resources to local communities. Although diverse, all mangroves share a fragile nature, facing significant threats that jeopardize their existence.

The study focuses on the demographic characteristics of Gaussia spirituana, highlighting its clustered population distribution. Conducted over 25 one-hectare plots, the research reveals that this species thrives in a clustered arrangement, which is identified as an effective survival strategy. Understanding the density and distribution of such plant populations is vital for their role in agriculture, forestry, and ecosystem support. This work represents a significant contribution to the knowledge of plant population dynamics.

Exploring the diverse habitats of birds, this book highlights their significance in ecosystems, from forests to coastal areas. It emphasizes their role in pest control, their appeal in birdwatching ecotourism, and their ability to bring joy through their beauty and songs. The text advocates for the appreciation and conservation of these remarkable creatures, underscoring their evolutionary success and the vital connections they share with humans.

The book focuses on the avifauna of the Botanical Garden of Sancti Spíritus, an area crucial for bird biodiversity in the city. While existing studies cover other Cuban botanical gardens, this work aims to fill the gap in knowledge regarding the bird species that inhabit Sancti Spíritus. It highlights the significance of this garden for conservation efforts and provides valuable insights into the local bird population.

Focusing on the unique characteristics of Paraphrynus viridiceps, this amblypygid species from Cuba is notable for its medium size and flattened body. Unlike spiders, it has segmented abdomens and elongated, whip-shaped legs. Primarily nocturnal, these arachnids seek shelter under stones or tree bark, with some species inhabiting caves or coexisting with humans. They primarily feed on various arthropods, including insects and spiders. Recent studies have documented their presence in subway cavities in central Cuba, highlighting their ecological adaptability.

The Antilles are characterized by mountainous terrain, abundant volcanoes, and a tropical climate with warm temperatures and significant rainfall. The region features numerous limestone caves, limited rivers, and diverse coastal environments, including beaches and wetlands. Unique vegetation supports a rich wildlife, with a notable variety of birds, fish, iguanas, bats, and turtles, though large mammals are rare. Despite their small size, the islands are home to a high number of threatened species, making them a critical biodiversity hotspot.

The study investigates the ecological impact of different coffee cultivation systems, highlighting the advantages of organic methods that utilize shade trees and natural pest control. Conducted in Aguacate, the research involved capturing bats to assess biodiversity, revealing that organic plantations host greater species diversity, particularly frugivores. The most common species captured was Artibeus jamaicensis, with fecal analysis indicating a diet rich in Ficus, Solarium, and Piper seeds. Significant differences in biodiversity and diet were observed between organic and technified coffee plantations.

The study focuses on the population dynamics of the endemic Cuban species Rostrhamus sociabilis, assessing its numbers across various reservoirs in Sancti Spíritus. Conducted through 34 sampling sessions from September to May, the research avoided the reproductive months to minimize observation errors. Using linear transects, the study estimated a population of 12,555 birds across the dams, revealing significant variability in abundance, particularly noting a decline from November to February.