REPORT ON THE RESILIENCE OF THE OCELLATED CRAKE, Micropygia schomburgkii, IN THE METROPOLITAN REGION OF SÃO PAULO, SOUTHEASTERN BRAZIL

Abstract

The ocellated crake (Micropygia schomburgkii), a small Rallidae measuring 14–15 cm, inhabits open areas and Cerrado grasslands. Despite its classification as "Least Concern" by the IUCN, it is critically endangered in São Paulo due to habitat loss and fragmentation. This study monitored a population of M. schomburgkii in the Juquery State Park (PEJY), São Paulo, following a significant wildfire in 2021 that burned 53% of the park's area. Playback techniques were employed along a trail network to detect individuals. Surveys occurred semiannually from 2022 to 2024, totaling 26 hours and 61.5 km of transects. Initial surveys detected no individuals, but subsequent efforts identified 6, 7, and 37 individuals, including solitary birds and pairs. The findings suggest population recovery aided by the resilience of Cerrado vegetation, despite the absence of a detailed management plan for the park. Historical records indicate the species' near disappearance in São Paulo since 1936, with rediscovery in 2018. Increasing anthropogenic pressures on the Cerrado are likely forcing M. schomburgkii to depending of protected fragments like PEJY. This underscores the importance of creating a management plan to safeguard biodiversity and promote sustainable ecotourism. Encouraging birdwatching and citizen science could enhance species documentation and support conservation efforts. The study highlights the necessity of integrating public engagement with conservation strategies, particularly for locally threatened species in isolated habitats.