Changes in Population Distributions of an Island Endemic Species Over Time
Author: Jessica Martin
Faculty Supervisor: Jaime Chaves
Department: Biology
Island endemic species experience a higher rate of extinction than their mainland counterparts due to anthropogenic factors. The lava gull (Leucophaeus fuliginosus), an endemic bird of the Galapagos archipelago, is the rarest gull in the world. In 1967 there were estimated to be between 300 to 400 breeding pairs in the archipelago, however it is unknown if the island distribution of this species is changing with the increased urbanization of the Galapagos islands. Using the existing body of scientific literature, collections data, and citizen science data from eBird reports, I examined species distribution between islands and population changes over time. This study aims to provide an updated review of the lava gull as well as uncover priority areas of future research. Historically, this species has been found throughout the archipelago though in recent years there has been an increased population numbers found around urban settlements on the main islands of the archipelago. Due to the understudied nature of this species, there remain multiple avenues for future research including population dynamics and genetics. The work here can pave the way for improved conservation management and provide insight into population distributions between islands.