Bird-grassland associations in protected and non-protected areas in southern Brazil

Abstract Conversion of grasslands in other land uses is the main threat for grassland birds. We investigated habitat use by grassland birds in Permanent Preservation Areas surrounded by Eucalyptus plantation stands and non-protected grasslands (grazed native grasslands). As there is no evidence whether Permanent Preservation Areas are effective habitats for grassland avifauna, we compared such areas with grazed native grasslands, regarding richness, abundance and composition of grassland birds. Short and tall grassland bird specialists were recorded, with some species related to the non-protected areas and others to the protected areas. Thus, both areas are fundamental habitats for conservation of grassland bird species. We highlight the importance of grassland mosaics to maintain grassland bird species. Furthermore, we highlight the necessity of maintaining Permanent Preservation Areas in ranching and cropland areas, in order to connect grassland remnants in an extremely converted landscape and to conserve especially bird species that are more sensitive to disturbances.