Diet and Habitat Preference of the Resplendent Quetzal (Pharomachrus mocinno costaricensis) in Costa Rican Montane Oak Forest

25.7 Conclusions

The results of this study can be used by planners and landowners to set reforestation and habitat management programmes (Chaps. 30, 32 and 33). The feasibility of planting certain tree and shrub species must yet be determined by means of systematic research in plant nurseries. Also, energetic forests can be created in order to supply fuel wood for local demand, nevertheless discouraging the use of trees which are important for the quetzal and other frugivorous species (e.g., Chap. 30).

Finally, an economic and social incentive program should be conceived and implemented considering the value of forest (Chap. 33) for wildlife conservation. In this way, landowners protecting forest fragments can receive extra benefits by protecting the quetzal’s habitat.

The RFLS’ oak forest conservation implies the protection of an array of species and processes. However, we must be aware of the fact that conservation measures focusing on only one species, such as the quetzal, should be adapted to the inherent conditions of the region of interest. This study’s findings, related to the natural history of the quetzal in the Talamancan oak forest, demonstrate that the RFLS is useful in protecting quetzal habitat while supporting human populations.