Abstract

Life history traits may constitute adequate indicators of the sensitivity of a species to changes in habitat/landscape availability. In this study we examine the role of life history traits in the responses of birds and mammals from the mediterranean-climate region of Chile to landscape change. Through a literature survey, we assess an index of sensitivity that may unravel which life history traits induce higher vulnerability to habitat/landscape transformation. Results revealed a broad range of relevant life history traits in mediterranean rodents and birds. Species with high sensitivity indices include Chelemys megalonyx, Octodon bridgesi and O. lunatus among rodents, and Columba araucana, Patagona gigas, Campephilus magellanicus, Scelorchilus albicollis, Scytalopus magellanicus, Agelaius thilius, Asio flammeus, and Strix rufipes, among birds. Two traits, reproductive effort and habitat requirements, are particularly important for the most sensitive species. The correlation between the sensitivity index and the conservation status of species suggests that the subjective judgments upon which Red Lists are based are supported by biological attributes. However, such listings may overlook some species. The approach reveals that a minimum of biological information can provide useful guidelines to establish criteria for the conservation of Chilean mediterranean mammals and birds