Presence of migratory and resident birds in an urban canal: a potential refuge for birds in an anthropogenic environment

Abstract

Urban expansion has led to the fragmentation and degradation of natural habitats, significantly impacting bird communities. Despite their artificial origin, urban canals may serve as important refuges for avifauna, offering food and water resources in highly anthropized landscapes. However, little is known about the avian diversity present in these environments, particularly in Chile. This study aims to determine the composition and diversity of migratory and resident birds in the urban Canal Ifarle (Talcahuano, Chile). Bird surveys were conducted over a one-year period during seasonal transitions, complemented by data from the citizen science platform eBird (2016–2023). A total of 79 species belonging to 13 taxonomic orders were recorded, including 12 long-distance migratory species from the Northern Hemisphere. These findings highlight the role of urban canals as alternative habitats for avifauna, particularly in urbanized regions where natural wetlands are scarce. The presence of migratory species suggests that Canal Ifarle may contribute to ecological connectivity by serving as a stopover site along migration routes. While this study provides baseline data on bird diversity in an urban canal, further research is needed to assess habitat quality, species breeding activity, and the potential impact of pollution and human disturbance. Understanding the ecological role of artificial water bodies is essential for developing conservation strategies in urban environments.