The effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on updated estimates of the population of the Agulhas Long-billed Lark<i>Certhilauda brevirostris</i>, a South African endemic

The Agulhas Long-billed Lark Certhilauda brevirostris is a South African endemic and restricted to the fynbos habitat of Plain in southwestern corner Africa. 1990, 2014, 2018 land use cover (LULC) databases prepared for Africa were used determine LULC categories that best describe suitable this bird using beta regressions. Previously published densities surface area considered birds estimate their historical current population sizes, rates change bird’s population. Beta regression models compiled from adjusted reporting rate total area, three other landscape metrics, per pentad them. These revealed although adversely affected by loss its natural these adverse effects have been offset an increase availability fallow fields summer. This confirms previous observations agriculture may allowed numbers. Lark’s extent occurrence (EOO) was estimated at 1 322 509 ha (n = 197 pentads) with occupancy (AOO) be 076 854 2020. decline available 3.5% over generations (10.5 years). present study provides improved estimates between 146 344 264 691 individuals, 60 753 109 883 individuals habitat, 85 591 154 808 transformed habitat. results indicate Near Threatened status should reviewed.