Long-term population monitoring of the Critically Endangered Grenada Dove Research Paper
The Grenada Dove (Leptotila wellsi) is an IUCN-listed Critically Endangered species endemic to the island of Grenada, West Indies. Long-term population monitoring was carried out episodically between 1987 and 2007 using territory (spot) mapping. Changes in distribution were also noted through 2016. The most recent population estimate of 136 individuals is based on territorial mapping of 68 males (assuming a 1:1 sex ratio) in 2007, representing a 25% decline from 182 individuals estimated immediately prior to Hurricane Ivan in 2003–2004. The species is limited almost exclusively to two areas in the southwest and on the west coast, with only a few individuals found outside these areas. Major threats include habitat loss and degradation due to residential and commercial development, small-scale agriculture, and fire. The impacts of these threats have been compounded by the impacts of extreme weather events such as Hurricane Ivan in 2004, and a high incidence of introduced mammalian predators.
Area of Interest: Grenada
Year 2017
