Avian diversity in Moka, Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea

Abstract

Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea is a biodiversity hotspot facing encroaching development, logging, and hunting. Long-term monitoring of the species composition and community structure of birds on Bioko allows for a better understanding of the effects of seasonality, anthropogenic development, and climate change. The objective of this study was to evaluate the species composition, richness, and relative abundance of birds in Moka, an agricultural town with patches of secondary forest located on the edge of a protected area on Bioko. Here we report on mist netting conducted as part of student-led projects from 2008 to 2015. In total, 674 birds, representing 46 species, were caught over 76 days of sampling, including one restricted-range species and one species designated Near Threatened by the IUCN, the White-tailed Warbler Poliolais lopezi. Moka is an important area for conservation, ecotourism, and educational opportunities on Bioko; however, it is relatively understudied, with little long-term data published on the ecology of native species. These data help to create a baseline with which to make comparisons over time as land-use changes affect the habitat surrounding Moka, especially as the adjacent protected area is considered for international recognition and protection as a proposed biosphere reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site.