Lack of evidence for the presence of macaws of the Anodorhynchus genus in the Colombian-Brazilian river basin of the Vaupés

Abstract

It is generally understood that the Anodorhynchus genus of macaws does not spread north of the Amazon River. However, recent published information suggests that the endangered Hyacinth Macaw Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus may occur in the region of the Papurí River, lower Vaupés, in Amazonian Colombia. This information is hypothetical, based on old reports and observations with imprecise geographical data. Our objective was to confirm the presence of macaws of the genus Anodorhynchus in the lower Vaupés, Colombia, and in nearby Negro River, Brazil. We carried out fieldwork and interviews from September 2004 to July 2005, but we failed to locate the species. Notwithstanding, we received information from 8% of the interviewed members of local ethnic groups suggesting that a macaw with similar characteristics to Anodorhynchus genus could inhabit this area. We discuss about the presence of macaws of this genus north of the Amazon River, and their potential food sources (local palms). On the basis of the absence of recordings we conclude that Anodorhynchus hyacinthinus should be considered hypothetical, at least in Colombia. Nevertheless, we recommend following the precautionary principle and suggest further work in the area.