HISPANIOLA DAY: CELEBRATING ADVANCES IN AVIAN CONSERVATION FROM MANGROVES TO MOUNTAINS.

Hispaniola boasts a highly diverse avian assemblage due to its complex geological history resulting in many unique habitats, including the Caribbean's highest and lowest points. Of the 318 bird species reported from the Dominican Republic (DR) and Haiti, 34 are endemic to the island, and nearly 70 species are overwintering migrants. Despite more extensive forest cover in the DR, and internationally important wetlands in both countries, the island's avifauna faces severe pressure from habitat loss, overharvesting, and introduced predators. Thirty-six taxa are threatened or endangered, including nearly half of the endemic birds. Long-term avian research and conservation efforts, which began in the 1960s and flourished since the 1990s, have significantly contributed to local capacity-building. Initiatives like the Ridgeway’s Hawk conservation program have achieved significant population recovery through community and private-sector involvement. Bi-national collaborations to achieve the conservation of the endangered Black-capped Petrel and the American Flamingo, highlight the effectiveness of joint efforts. Recent ecological studies on endemic bird species have shown promising contributions to advancing our understanding of the behavior, demography, and conservation of Caribbean birds. Species-specific and ecosystem-focused programs have yielded positive outcomes in habitat restoration, sustainable agroforestry, and nature-based tourism. Education and outreach programs in the last decades, led by nature photography groups, government actors and NGOs, have increased public awareness regarding the value of birds and solidified public participation in citizen science initiatives.