DIETA DE ARARAS CANINDÉ (Ara ararauna Linneaus 1758) NATIVAS E REINTRODUZIDAS NA ÁREA URBANA DE ILHA SOLTEIRA (SP)

Abstract

The urbanization process significantly impacts ecosystems, leading to habitat loss and the adaptation of species such as the blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna) to urban environments. This study investigates the diet of this species in Ilha Solteira-SP, analyzing the interaction of residents when feeding them and their relationship with reintroduced individuals. The research was conducted in five urban quadrants, totaling 292 feeding records, of which 106 were associated with human interaction, which represents about one third. It was observed that the macaws consumed resources from 13 plant families, with a clear preference for seeds, especially sunflower seeds, frequently offered by the inhabitants. Dietary diversity varied between quadrants, with the richest quadrant having eight recorded plant families and a greater number of human interactions. Although natural feeding remained constant across areas, dependence on human-provided food was evident, indicating adaptive success, but also potential health risks for the birds, such as the loss of foraging abilities for native items. The research highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of macaws in urban environments, considering the legislation that prohibits the feeding of wild animals and the impacts of this practice on the conservation of the species and local ecosystems.