Habitat Changes in Laguna de Pozuelos, Jujuy, Argentina: Implications for South American Flamingo Populations

Abstract

-The three South American flamingos, Chilean Flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis), Andean Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus andinus) and James' Flamingo (Phoenicoparrus jamesi), coexist in Laguna de Pozuelos (ujuy Province, northwestern Argentina). This lake is an important overwintering habitat for Andean and James' Flamingos. The Chilean Flamingo is the predominant species and the only one breeding on the lake. This study was conducted from 1992 to 1995, during a period of drought. I report changes in the habitat conditions and how they affect the presence and abundance of flamingo species. Results indicate that in years of below average rainfall, the number of flamingos decreased appreciably, and their expected seasonal pattern of abundance is affected. Chilean Flamingo abundance showed a positive association with the size of the lake, possibly related to the scarcity of deep foraging areas. Zooplankton was lacking, so the presence of Chilean Flamingo might not be related to it. Diatom density was not a limiting resource for James and Andean Flamingos. James' Flamingo preferred to feed near the banks, and was favored by the availability of shallow foraging habitats as the lake contracted. Flamingos recorded in Laguna de Pozuelos represent a fraction of their entire populations within the high-Andes wetland complex. In this context, Pozuelos is an important habitat for flamingos and one of the main breeding grounds for Chilean Flamingo at high altitudes. Received 20 August 2000, accepted 21 December 2000.