Levantamento da avifauna da área urbana do município de Parintins/Am e sua contribuição para a educação ambiental

Abstract

Brazil is a country with great biodiversity, home to approximately 20% of the planet's total species. Birds are an important group of vertebrates that perform several ecological functions in the ecosystems where they are found. In this context, studies that describe the diversity of bird species are essential for their conservation. Until 2025, no studies had been conducted on the composition and diversity of the avifauna in the Municipality of Parintins, Amazonas. Given this, the present work aimed to survey the urban avifauna of the municipality and contribute to Environmental Education by cataloging species and promoting informal educational practices. To achieve these objectives, the project was divided into three parts: a species survey, an Environmental Education activity, and the production of an e-book. As a result of the study, the occurrence of 76 species, distributed across 35 families and 16 orders, was recorded. Despite the sampling effort, the collector curve did not stabilize, indicating that not all species in the urban area were recorded. Based on this data, an Environmental Education questionnaire was developed, and a birdwatching trail was conducted at CESP/UEA, along with the creation of a bird species catalog for the city. The questionnaire consisted of five questions and was answered by 127 participants over the course of a week. The results indicated a positive level of knowledge among participants regarding Environmental Education. Three groups, totaling 36 participants, joined the birdwatching trail. During the activity, the Merlin Bird ID application was used to capture bird vocalizations and assist in species identification. The catalog, entitled “Birds of the Urban Area of Parintins/AM”, compiles all species recorded during fieldwork, presents key identification information, and is written in accessible language, making it suitable for students at both basic and higher education levels, as well as teachers and other interested individuals. All proposed objectives were achieved throughout the study. The avifaunal survey provides an overview of the species richness and diversity not only in the urban area but throughout the municipality. The importance of preserving green areas within the city is highlighted, as they are essential for attracting and sustaining avian diversity. The birdwatching trail at CESP/UEA demonstrated that such activities support both Environmental and Scientific Education at all academic levels, being relatively simple and hands-on. Additionally, documenting this activity may serve as a reference for future research, outreach programs, and Environmental Education internships, as well as for initiatives beyond the academic sphere, raising awareness about wildlife conservation and promoting critical thinking on environmental issues.