Bird community as an indicator of biodiversity: results from quantitative surveys in Brazil.

This short review presents the results obtained in several localities of Brazil on the composition of forest bird communities. Data were collected since the late 80's, after we introduced a new methodology of quantitative survey, based on acoustic identification and unlimited-radius point census. Although these data are still scattered, they show uniquely precise and coherently comparative patterns of composition of forest bird communities. Our methodology has the advantage of being absolutely non-disturbing, highly efficient in the field and immediately processed. Results confirm that the structure of a bird community is a good indicator of biodiversity, particularly useful where biodiversity is high. Many of these data are available only in unpublished dissertations and abstracts of congress communications, or are being analysed. A cooperative program is needed to promote new surveys and publish their results, as a contribution for measuring and monitoring biodiversity, especially in complex endangered habitats.