Work

It takes two to tango, but not two pairs! Rare record of two reintroduced pairs of vinaceous-breasted Amazons sharing the same nest-box

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Cavity-nesting birds, such as the endangered vinaceous-breasted Amazon ( Amazona vinacea ), are particularly vulnerable to habitat loss and nest-site competition. Released amazons may face challenges to form mating pairs and choose a nest site. This study documents a rare case of two released pairs of A. vinacea sharing the same artificial nest box in the surroundings of the Araucárias National Park, Brazil. Behavioral interactions were monitored using camera traps over 65 days. The implications for reproductive success were evaluated, and management strategies to mitigate nest competition in reintroduction programs were proposed. Both pairs frequently visited the same nest box, occasionally with different partners, and exhibited aggressive interactions. A female laid two eggs that failed to hatch. These findings suggest that limited availability of artificial nest boxes may elicit atypical behaviors in released individuals, potentially influenced by captivity related factors. To improve reproductive success, it is recommended to install nest boxes ≥ 300 m apart, adopt weather-resistant designs and promote local engagement in monitoring through citizen science.

Source: Ornithology Research

Authors: Rafael Rios Moura, Kleyton Camargo de Souza, Vanessa Tavares Kanaan

Institutions: Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia

Language: English

Topic: Avian ecology and behavior

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,290

Funders: Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais