Abstract

The Neotropical region has one of the greatest bird diversity in the world and, in turn, faces future increases in the human population that inhabits cities. Many birds in this region are experiencing significant population declines due to anthropogenic impacts, which is why it is essential to analyze the effects of urbanization on birds in the Neotropics. Based on a bibliographic review, we found 270 studies on urban ornithology in the Neotropics, almost half of the investigations focus on spatial ecology, and only three countries (Brazil, Mexico and Argentina) concentrate more than 60% of the investigations. This Special Issue includes 20 articles on urban ornithology with the participation of researchers from six countries from the region. In these works-which include points of view, bibliographical reviews, methodologies and research support, articles and short communications-, different topics are analyzed such as the change in bird diversity and population numbers along urban and temporal gradients, nest predation and adult mortality in urban environments. Compared to the topics previously addressed in the region, this Special Issue stands out for its works on demography and bird behavior. According to published articles, more studies are needed on species demography, and impacts of abiotic factors such as artificial light and noise, and multiple spatial scales analyses.