Assessing bird species richness in shade-grown coffee farms, Chiapas, Mexico

Daniel Camilo Thompson Poo

The purpose of this project is to determine richness of insectivorous bird species in forest remnants and shade-grown coffee farms in the pine-oak forest near El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve in Chiapas, Mexico. We will use methods to evaluate the economic value of these birds in controlling arthropod pests. This data will create the baseline to future implementation of a Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) framework. This particular area is home to many endangered species and is a unique ecosystem. With this project we will assist in the creation of best management practices for shade-coffee farming.