Improving research towards conservation objectives

Abstract

In the last three decades urban bird ecology has experienced a remarkable advance as demonstrated by the rich variety of chapters included in this volume. Nevertheless, there are some research gaps which we try to identify in this chapter, including some issues in current research that to us seem especially pressing. We conclude that a critical examination of bird census techniques in urban areas, an integration of patterns and processes across different spatial scales, the incorporation of temporal dynamics, a more widespread use of experimental or pseudo-experimental design and a deeper insight on sociological and cultural issues are key issues to refine our understanding of the causal connection between urbanisation and bird fauna parameters. Such improvement could help us to shape urban design and management strategies for bird fauna conservation in cities and in the surrounding landscape.