First record of the Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) in the Bañados de Figueroa, an Important Bird Area of Santiago del Estero, Argentina

Abstract

In this study, we describe the first record of the Blue Heron Egretta caerulea in the Bañados de Figueroa, Santiago del Estero, Argentina. This species ranges from central North America to South America. An adult of this species was observed for the first time in swamps near the Cuchi Pozo Dam, Bandera Bajada, along with many Snowy Egrets (Egretta thula). The Bañados de Figueroa constitute an extensive area of natural wetlands and regionally important dams located along the Salado River in the northwest of the province of Santiago del Estero. These wetlands are recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA) for conservation. However, they are currently affected by dam construction activities. This report along with others suggest that the species may be expanding within Argentina. Our work is part of a larger research effort which seeks to enhance the importance of artificial and natural wetlands of northwestern Argentina and represents the first systematic ornithological study of the area.