Occurrence of the whistling heron, Syrigma sibilatrix (Temminck, 1824) (Aves: Ciconiiformes), in Goiás state, central Brazil

Abstract

Between 1999 and 2004 we recorded the whistling heron, Syrigma sibilatrix, in Goiás state, central Brazil. One specimen was collected and deposited in the Fundação Museu de Ornitologia de Goiânia (FMOG 12855). Observations were conducted in some municipalities of the Goiânia metropolitan region and in the west-central, northeastern and southern regions of Goiás. Probably, the range expansion of this species is due to the increase of pastures, artificial ponds and other anthropic areas in the region. However, it may only reflect the paucity of ornithological studies in central Brazil. © 2005 Instituto de Ciências Biológicas - UFMG.