Studies conducted by Fabiola Rodriguez and Jeff Larkin of Indiana University of Pennsylvania identified Wood Thrush as one of the most abundant migratory birds in remnant dry forest patches of Honduras. This is of particular interest as Wood Thrush are usually associated with moister conditions. The study was part of a project to evaluate the local flora and fauna of Honduras’ Agalta Valley to identify the habitat needs of the endangered Honduran Emerald as well as to develop protocols for monitoring this imperiled bird. The large presence of Wood Thrush means ensuring the protection of the remaining dry forest in the area for the Honduran Emerald will also benefit Wood Thrush.
A 147-acre property in the Agalta Valley has recently been designated the El Ciruelo Wildlife Refuge by the Honduran Forestry Department. The American Bird Conservancy and the Asociacion de Investigacion para el Desarrollo Ecologico y Socio Economico (ASIDE) are working with the local government to develop a strategy for management of the refuge and critical next steps, such as establishing visitor trails and conducting additional outreach with local landowners about the role of the new refuge.
