摘要：Forest structure and composition have been used to assess the habitat characteristics that determine birddistributions. The patterns of distribution have been shaped by historical and ecological factors that play different rolesat both temporal and spatial scales. The objectives of this research were to characterize the habitat of the endangeredMilitary Macaw (Ara militaris) and evaluate the potential distribution of this species based on trends of land use changesin Mexico. We characterized the community structure and floristic composition of 8 forests that are currently used by theMilitary Macaw for breeding and feeding and compared the results with 6 similar forests characterized in other studies butwithout historical records of the presence of the Military Macaw. The Military Macaw preferred sites with high diversityof plant species dominated by trees from 4 to 15 m in height and from 5 to 90 cm in diameter at breast height. We identified236 plant species in the 8 forests with 20 species (8.4%) used for nesting and feeding by the Military Macaw. The floristiccomposition is important for the presence of the Military Macaw because there were significant differences betweenforests with and without its presence. The potential area of distribution of the Military Macaw had decreased by 32%and the remnant areas are included in only 8 National Protected Areas. The protected areas of natural forests should beincreased to preserve the sites of potential distribution and consequently the habitat of the Military Macaw in Mexico.
关键词：Biología; Ecología; Conservación.;Ara militaris; Forest community structure; Habitat characterization; habitat loss; Military Macaw.
