Mist-nets versus point counts in the estimation of forest bird abundances in South-Central Chile

Abstract

We used variable-radius point counts and mist-netting to estimate forest bird abundances in the Maule Region of South Central Chile. Mist-netting detected a total of 25 species over 3 years and 3 seasons per year (Winter, Spring, and Summer) whereas point counts recorded 38 species during the same time. In general, the relationship between capture rate and estimated density agreed with the prediction that canopy foragers and large and less mobile species tend to be underrepresented in mist-netting data. Point counts are a much more cost-effective technique to assess bird populations in temperate Neotropical forests. © The Neotropical Ornithological Society.