Ethno-ornithology as a basis for sustainable tourism in dry forests Ethno-ornithology as a basis for sustainable tourism in dry forests
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The aim of this study was to document local ethno-ornithological knowledge and assess its contribution to sustainable bird-based tourism in the dry forest ecosystem of El Chial, Manabí, Ecuador. Between June 2024 and March 2025, we applied free-listing, semi-structured interviews, surveys, and field transects, complemented by GIS-based spatial analysis. A total of 14 bird species belonging to 10 families were recorded across four land-cover types: grasslands (175.55 ha), natural forest (122.76 ha), traditional crops (122.39 ha), and shrub vegetation (69.86 ha). Species with the highest cultural salience were Psittacara erythrogenys (0.66), Pionus menstruus (0.53), and Brotogeris pyrrhopterus (0.53), all psittacids noted for their strong tourism appeal due to their coloration, calls, and group behavior. Local knowledge closely matched documented ecological patterns, including feeding habits, nesting substrates, and reproductive timing. Several species—such as Melanerpes pucherani, Ortalis erythroptera, and Momotus subrufescens—were identified as suitable for interpretive walks and environmental education, while agricultural species like Molothrus bonariensis and Crotophaga sulcirostris offer accessible opportunities for beginner birdwatching. These findings indicate that local avifauna holds strong potential for developing community-based bird tourism grounded in conservation, Montubio cultural identity, and sustainable dry-forest management. The integration of traditional knowledge, ecological analysis, and spatial tools provides a robust foundation for sustainable avitourism development in rural territories.
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