Man´s activities have led to a noteworthy degradation and loss of habitat in several parts of the planet, damaging the functioning of the ecosystem and reducing the value of ecosystem services. In this sense, environments such as the temperate grassland of Argentina and the coastal and oceanic environments of northern Patagonia represent areas of the region which have suffered a significant impact. Despite the noticeable progress achieved in the knowledge of basic aspects of vertebrate ecology in the Pampas and its marine coast, the need to continue inquiring in this line and turning the generated information into conservation and management tools remains imperative. Considering the intensity and magnitude of urban development on ecosystems, the approach to analyze the responses needs to be conducted from a regional perspective. The Grupo Vertebrados (Vertebrates’ Group) has aimed the results of its research to governmental agencies and decision makers responsible for developing and implementing conservation plans regarding the management of natural resources. General objectives of this group are: 1) to study the structure and functioning of vertebrate populations and assemblages in natural environments with varying degrees of human impact, 2) to analyze biological and ecological features of species with particular interest, and 3) to provide critical information to agencies and decision makers so as to promote the development and improvement of management and conservation plans in the target area.

The current project “Ecology and Behavior of Vertebrates in Marine-coastal Environments” includes the following lines of research:

(1) Ecology and conservation of seabirds (responsible Dr. Marco Favero)
Our interest lies in the study of different aspects of the biology and ecology (spatial, trophic, behavioral and population) of species of seabirds and coastal birds with different conservation status. We seek to address the problems faced by seabirds in relation to the effect of environmental variability and anthropogenic activities through an inclusive process that includes the academy, government agencies and NGOs for the generation of knowledge and development of regulations and their implementation. The group is currently working on the following topics: 1) evaluation of the effect of environmental variability (productivity, fronts, climate change) and anthropogenic activities (commercial fisheries, tourism) on the movement, population and trophic ecology of marine pelagic and coastal species; 2) analysis of the behavioral response of birds according to social context, environmental heterogeneity and anthropogenic activities; 3) identification of priority areas for the conservation of seabirds, and 4) generation of basic information for the improvement of the conservation status of marine species.

(2) The role of anthropic disturbance in the ecology and conservation of grassland birds (responsible Dr. Juan Pablo Isacch)
Natural environments are changing as a result of anthropogenic activities at an extremely high rate and scale. Many animals have been subject to environmental disturbances during their evolutionary histories, but the speed and magnitude of human-induced changes represent an unprecedented challenge for many species. In this context, our objective is to understand the role of anthropogenic disturbance on the diversity, species composition, life history traits and behavior of birds in the Pampas region, in order to contribute to ecological knowledge and to make recommendations from a conservation point of view. For this, we focus on common disturbances in our study region (East of Buenos Aires province, Argentina), such as urbanization, grazing on natural grasslands, fragmentation and invasion of plant species. Different questions arise in relation to these cases and we approach them from current theoretical frameworks. (1) We focus on trying to understand the role of urbanization on biodiversity and behavioral responses of species that inhabit this habitat. (2) In relation to grazing, we focus on determine grazing management that are compatible with native biodiversity. (3) We study the effect of habitat fragmentation by assessing the reproductive performance of birds breeding in fragments and whether they are capable to sustain viable populations. (4) Invasions by plant species are generating new environments, and our concern is to understand how birds respond to these new environments in terms of diversity and reproductive performance. We hope that our results improve management decisions on conservation of biodiversity and the ecosystem services associated.

(3) Ecology and conservation of raptors (responsible Lic. María Susana Bó)
We study the effect of habitat characteristics on reproductive parameters and breeding behavior of Falconiformes and Strigiformes species in modified and native habitats. We also focus on trophic and foraging ecology of raptor assemblages and the interaction among species. Finally we are interested in the study of raptors behavioral and cognitive traits (neophobia, learning capacity, memory and behavioral flexibility) that influence their ability to colonize and establishment in modified and novel habitats.

4) Herpetology (responsible Dra. Laura Vega)

We analyze the spatial patterns of the distribution, genetic structure and population persistence of sand lizards belonging to the genus Liolaemus in the coastal dunes of Buenos Aires. The effect of landscape composition and configuration on the current distribution, connectivity and viability of natural populations in reptile species is studied, by means of using ecological modelling, Geographic Information Systems and molecular markers as tools. Concomitantly we evaluate the physiological-functional performance and life history attributes of different lizard populations of the L. wiegmannii clade along their latitudinal range of distribution, also identifying the effect of environmental and intrinsic factors of individuals and their implications in an ecological-evolutionary framework. We particularly compare ecological and ecophysiological parameters between lizard populations from natural grassland environments and modified grasslands with exotic forestation, and inquire into the herpetological assemblages of coastal environments with varying degrees of natural and anthropogenic disturbances.
5) Invasive plant species (responsible Dr. Viviana Comparatore)

Our aim is to manage a reserve and to control its area of invasive plant species. We also plan to design and generate management guidelines for a publicly accessible nature reserve area in the eastern Tandilia mountain system (Paititi Natural Reserve, General Pueyrredón, Province of Buenos Aires, Argentina). We conduct floristic surveys in relation to geomorphology, which together with the faunistic survey will be used to zonify the above mentioned reserve so as to assign different uses to these areas including conservation, research, recreation, and education. We assist in establishing priority criteria regarding the need to intervene in areas with different levels of vulnerability in relation to endemic, threatened or invasive species. We also evaluate the effect of combined physical and chemical methods in the control of Black Acacia (Acacia melanoxylon) invasion in these reserve mountains, included the impact of the latter treatments on plant communities. Other goal is to start the operation of an interpretation center in this reserve.

 

Director
Dr. Isacch Juan Pablo
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET
Professor

O’Connor, T., García, G. O., Cabral, V. N., & Isacch, J. P. (2025). Agroecological farmer perceptions and opinions towards pest management and biodiversity in the Argentine Pampa region. Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, 49(2), 182–203. https://doi.org/10.1080/21683565.2024.2416008
Block, C., Pedrana, J., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Identifying priority areas for conservation of an endangered sand lizard using landscape-based habitat suitability models. Herpetologica, 79(4), 186–195. https://doi.org/10.1655/Herpetologica-D-20-00033
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Bó, M. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Respuesta diferencial de la Lechucita Vizcachera (Athene cunicularia) a vocalizaciones heteroespecíficas. El Hornero, 38(1). https://doi.org/10.56178/eh.v38i1.536
Pretelli, M. G., Cavalli, M., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Location matters: Survival of artificial nests is higher in small grassland patches and near the patch edge. Ibis, 165(1), 111–124. https://doi.org/10.1111/ibi.13128
Pretelli, M. G., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Madrid, E., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Sexual dimorphism and parental care in the wren-like rushbird Phleocryptes melanops. Ardeola, 70(1), 29–40. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.70.1.2023.ra1
O’Connor, T., García, G. O., Cabral, V. N., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Caracterización de productores agroecológicos en la ecorregión Pampas de Argentina. Agrociencia Uruguay, 26(NE3), e960–e960. https://doi.org/10.31285/AGRO.26.960
O’Connor, T., García, G. O., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Avian Biodiversity and Frugivory in an Agroecological Cherry Orchard in The Pampas Region of Argentina. Ardeola, 69(2), 249–262. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.69.2.2022.ra5
Cavalli, M., Martínez-Curci, N. S., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Bó, M. S., Chiaradia, N. M., Peluc, S., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Are novel ecosystems suitable habitats for native birds? Birds’ association with spontaneous vegetation patches in the argentinean pampas. Biodiversity and Conservation, 31, 811–830. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-022-02365-1
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Bó, M. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2021). Nest Dimensions, Burrow-Lining, and Decoration Behavior of Burrowing Owls In the Pampas. Journal of Raptor Research, 55(2), 255–266. https://doi.org/10.3356/JRR-19-48
Martínez-Curci, N. S., Isacch, J. P., D’Amico, V. L., Rojas, P., & Castresana, G. J. (2020). To migrate or not: drivers of over-summering in a long-distance migratory shorebird. Journal of Avian Biology, 51(10). https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/jav.02401
Pedrana, J., Pütz, K., Bernad, L., Seco Pon, J. P., Gorosabel, A., Muñoz, S. D., Isacch, J. P., Matus, R., Blank, O., Lüthi, B., Lunardelli, M., & Rojas, P. (2018). Migration routes and stopover sites of Upland Geese Chloephaga picta in South America. Avian Biology Research, 11(2), 80–88. https://doi.org/10.3184/175815618X15179180488510
Pedrana, J., Bernad, L., Maceira, N. O., & Isacch, J. P. (2018). Niche overlap determination through habitat suitability models: a management tool for native birds of the Argentinean Pampas. Ardeola, 65(1), 25–40. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.65.1.2018.ra2
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2018). Species-area relationships of specialist versus opportunistic pampas grassland birds depend on the surrounding landscape matrix. Ardeola, 65(1), 3–23. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.65.1.2018.ra1
Martínez-Curci, N. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2017). Shorebird population estimates using seasonal aerial and terrestrial surveys at Samborombón Bay, Argentina. Waterbirds, 40(4), 363–376. https://doi.org/10.1675/063.040.0408
Berkunsky, I., Quillfeldt, P., Brightsmith, D. J., Abbud, M. C., Aguilar, J. M. R. E., Alemán-Zelaya, U., Aramburú, R. M., Arce Arias, A., Balas McNab, R., Balsby, T. J. S., Barredo Barberena, J. M., Beissinger, S. R., Rosales, M., Berg, K. S., Bianchi, C. A., Blanco, E., Bodrati, A., Bonilla-Ruz, C., Botero-Delgadillo, E., … Masello, J. F. (2017). Current threats faced by Neotropical parrot populations. Biological Conservation, 214, 278–287. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2017.08.016
Cardoni, D. A., Isacch, J. P., & Baladrón Felix, A. V. (2017). Causes and consequences of nest mass and structure variation in the bay-capped wren-spinetail Spartonoica maluroides. Acta Ornithologica, 52(1), 51–58. https://doi.org/10.3161/00016454AO2017.52.1.005
Martínez, G., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Bó, M. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2017). Microscale nest-site selection by the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) in the pampas of Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 129(1), 62–70. https://doi.org/10.1676/1559-4491-129.1.62
Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., & Isacch, J. P. (2017). Breeding biology of the Wren-like Rushbird (Phleocryptes melanops) in the southeast Pampas of Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 129(1), 46–52. https://doi.org/10.1676/1559-4491-129.1.46
Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., Madrid, E., Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Chiaradia, N. M. (2017). Parental care and external sexual characters in the Warbling Doradito (Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris). Journal of Ornithology, 158(1), 159–167.
Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Chiaradia, N. M. (2017). Biología reproductiva y estatus de ocurrencia del doradito común (Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris) nidificando en pastizales al sur de su distribución. Ornitología Neotropical, 27, 317–325. http://journals.sfu.ca/ornneo/index.php/ornneo/article/view/102
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Cavalli, M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Habitat selection by burrowing owls Athene cunicularia in the Pampas of Argentina: a multiple-scale assessment. Acta Ornithologica, 51(2), 137–150. https://doi.org/10.3161/00016454AO2016.51.2.001
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., Isacch, J. P., & Cruz, F. B. (2016). Factors affecting the spatial ecology of the lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in the pampasic coastal dunes of Argentina. Herpetological Journal, 26(1), 11–19. https://www.thebhs.org/publications/the-herpetological-journal/volume-26-number-1-january-2016/853-03-factors-affecting-the-spatial-ecology-of-the-lizard-i-liolaemus-wiegmannii-i-in-the-pampasic-coastal-dunes-of-argentina
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Biondi, L. M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Differential risk perception of rural and urban Burrowing Owls exposed to humans and dogs. Behavioural Processes, 124, 60–65. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376635715300942
Cavalli, M., Isacch, J. P., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Biondi, L. M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Differing nest-defence behaviour in urban and rural populations of breeding Burrowing Owls. Emu, 116(4), 428–434.
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2016). Variation in parental care in the spectacled tyrant Hymenops perspicillatus is associated with increased nest predation in grassland fragments. Journal of Ornithology, 157(2), 451–460.
Block, C., Pedrana, J., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2016). Habitat suitability models for the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii based on landscape characteristics in temperate coastal dunes in Argentina. Austral Ecology, 41(6), 671–680. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aec.12356/full
Martínez-Curci, N. S., Bremer, E., Azpiroz, A. B., Battaglia, G. E., Salerno, J. C., Isacch, J. P., González, P. M., Castresana, G. J., & Rojas, P. (2015). Annual occurrence of Red Knot Calidris canutus rufa at Punta Rasa, Samborombón Bay, Argentina, over a 30-year period (1985–2014). Wader Study, 122(3), 236–242.
Pedrana, J., Seco Pon, J. P., Isacch, J. P., Leiss, A., Rojas, P. O., Castresana, G. J., Calvo, J., Bernad, L., Muñoz, S. D., Maceira, N. O., & Pütz, K. (2015). First insights into the migration pattern of an upland goose (Chloephaga picta) based on satellite tracking. Ornitología Neotropical, 26(3), 245–253.
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., & Madrid, E. (2015). Body size and sexual dimorphism in the southernmost subspecies of the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia cunicularia). Journal of Raptor Research, 49(4), 479–485. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.3356/rapt-49-04-479-485.1
Arzoz, N. S., Isacch, J. P., & Azpiroz, A. B. (2015). Shorebird seasonal abundance and habitat-use patterns in Punta Rasa, Samborombón Bay, Argentina. Waterbirds, 38(1), 68–76.
Martínez-Curci, N. S., Azpiroz, A. B., Isacch, J. P., & Elías, R. (2015). Dietary relationships among Nearctic and Neotropical migratory shorebirds in a key coastal wetland of South America. Emu, 115(4), 326–334. http://www.publish.csiro.au/MU/MU15031
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2015). Effects of fragmentation and landscape matrix on the nesting success of grassland birds in the Pampas grasslands of Argentina. Ibis, 157(4), 688–699. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ibi.12292/full
Cardoni, D. A., Isacch, J. P., & Iribarne, O. O. (2015). Avian responses to varying intensity of cattle production in Spartina densiflora saltmarshes of south-eastern South America. Emu, 115(1), 12–19.
Block, C., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Cruz, F. B., García, G. O., & Isacch, J. P. (2014). Thermoregulation in coastal sand dunes: impacts of the habitat modification on the wiegmann’s lizard. In M. P. Kiernan (Ed.), Lizards: thermal ecology, genetic diversity and functional role in ecosystems (pp. 75–97). Nova Science Publishers.
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Martínez, G., & Bó, M. S. (2014). Prey selection and food habits of breeding Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) in natural and modified habitats of Argentine pampas. Emu, 114(2), 184–188. http://www.publish.csiro.au/MU/MU13040
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., & Martínez, G. (2014). Social networks and ornithology studies: an innovative method for rapidly accessing data on conspicuous bird species. Biodiversity and Conservation, 23(8), 2127–2134.
Pretelli, M. G., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2014). Diet of nestling spectacled tyrants (Hymenops perspicillatus) in the southeast Pampas region, Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 126(4), 754–759.
Isacch, J. P., Cardoni, D. A., & Iribarne, O. O. (2014). Diversity and habitat distribution of birds in coastal marshes and comparisons with surrounding upland habitats in Southeastern South America. Estuaries and Coasts, 37(1), 229–239.
Block, C., Stellatelli, O. A., García, G. O., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Factors affecting the thermal behavior of the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in natural and modified grasslands of temperate coastal dunes from Argentina. Journal of Thermal Biology, 38(8), 560–569. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306456513001150
Cardoni, D. A., Greenberg, R., Maldonado, J. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Morphological adaptation to coastal marshes in spite of limited genetic structure in the Neotropical passerine Spartonoica maluroides (Aves: Furnariidae). Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 109(1), 78–91. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bij.12019/full
Pretelli, M. G., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Breeding biology of Spectacled Tyrant (Hymenops perspicillatus) in the southeastern Pampas region, Argentina. Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 125(2), 275–279. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1676/12-143.1
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2013). Year-round abundance, richness and nesting of the bird assemblage of tall grasslands in the south-east pampas region, Argentina. Ardeola, 60(2), 327–343. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.13157/arla.60.2.2013.327
Cardoni, D. A., Isacch, J. P., & Iribarne, O. O. (2012). Effects of cattle grazing and fire on the abundance, habitat selection, and nesting success of the bay-capped wren-spinetail (Spartonoica maluroides) in coastal saltmarshes of the Pampas region. The Condor, 114(4), 803–811. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1525/cond.2012.110186
Azpiroz, A. B., Isacch, J. P., Dias, R. A., Di Giacomo, A. S., Fontana, C. S., & Palarea, C. M. (2012). Ecology and conservation of grassland birds in southeastern South America: a review. Journal of Field Ornithology, 83(3), 217–246. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1557-9263.2012.00372.x/full
Researchers
Dr. Baladron Alejandro Victor
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Dra. Beron Maria Paula
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Dra. Biondi Laura Marina
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Biondi, L. M., Medina, A., Bonetti, E. A., Paterlini, C. A., & Bó, M. S. (2024). Cognitive flexibility in a generalist raptor: a comparative analysis along an urbanization gradient. Behavioral Ecology, 35(3), arae025. https://doi.org/10.1093/beheco/arae025
Paterlini, C. A., Bó, M. S., Saggese, M. D., Bonetti, E. A., Noseda, R. P., Bigalli, C., & Biondi, L. M. (2024). Prevalence of pathogens in free-living adult chimango caracaras (Milvago chimango) in three areas with different levels of urbanization in the pampas ecoregion, Argentina. Journal of Raptor Research, 58(2), 185–192. https://doi.org/10.3356/JRR-23-61
Harrington, K. J., Folkertsma, R., Auersperg, A. M. I., Biondi, L. M., & Lambert, M. L. (2024). Innovative problem solving by wild falcons. Current Biology, 34(1), 190-195.e3. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cub.2023.10.061
Castano, M. V., Zumpano, F., Biondi, L. M., & García, G. O. (2023). Does urbanization affect behavioral responses to novel objects in marine birds? The Olrog’s Gull as a case of study. Urban Ecosystems, 27, 427–437. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11252-023-01465-2
Biagiotti Barchiesi, M. C., Biondi, L. M., & García, G. O. (2023). A systematic review of trends in research on seabird behavioral flexibility. Marine Ornithology, 51, 293–300. http://www.marineornithology.org/article?rn=1546
Paterlini, C. Á., Bó, M. S., Saggese, M. D., & Biondi, L. M. (2023). Hematology and plasma biochemistry reference intervals for free-living adult chimango caracara (Milvago chimango) during the nonbreeding season. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 54(1), 56–64. https://doi.org/10.1638/2021-0147
Castano, M. V., Biondi, L. M., Favero, M., & García, G. O. (2022). Innovative problem-solving in a threatened gull species, the Olrog’s Gull (Larus atlanticus). Animal Cognition, 25, 519–527. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-021-01572-7
Biondi, L. M., Fuentes, G., & Susana, M. (2022). Behavioural factors underlying innovative problem-solving differences in an avian predator from two contrasting habitats. Animal Cognition, 25, 529–543. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-021-01569-2
Guido, J. M., Biondi, L. M., Vasallo, A. I., & Muzio, R. N. (2017). Neophobia is negatively related to reversal learning ability in females of a generalist bird of prey, the Chimango Caracara, Milvago chimango. Animal Cognition, 20(4), 591–602. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10071-017-1083-9
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Biondi, L. M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Differential risk perception of rural and urban Burrowing Owls exposed to humans and dogs. Behavioural Processes, 124, 60–65. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376635715300942
Cavalli, M., Isacch, J. P., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Biondi, L. M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Differing nest-defence behaviour in urban and rural populations of breeding Burrowing Owls. Emu, 116(4), 428–434.
Mosto, M., Picasso, M., & Biondi, L. M. (2016). Long-legged caracaras: terrestrial habitat and hindlimb morphology. Journal of Zoology, 298(4), 274–284.
Canepuccia, A. D., Pascual, J. M., Biondi, L. M., & Iribarne, O. O. (2015). Small Mammals Along SW-Atlantic Marshes: Diversity Correlates with Inland Habitats but Abundance Correlates with Marsh Characteristics. Wetlands, 35(1), 1–12.
Biondi, L. M., Guido, J. M., Bó, M. S., Muzio, R. N., & Vassallo, A. I. (2015). The role of stimulus complexity, age and experience in the expression of exploratory behaviour in the Chimango Caracara, Milvago chimango. Animal Cognition, 18(1), 139–150. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-014-0785-5
Biondi, L. M., Guido, J., Madrid, E., Bó, M. S., & Vassallo, A. I. (2013). The effect of age and sex on object exploration and manipulative behavior in a Neotropical raptor, the Chimango Caracara, Milvago chimango. Ethology, 119(3), 221–232. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/eth.12056/full
Dr. Block Carolina
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Dajil, J. E., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Stellatelli, O. A. (2024). Spatial ecology of a threatened liolaemid lizard: the interplay of intrinsic and environmental factors. Current Herpetology, 43(2), 169–187. https://doi.org/10.5358/hsj.43.169
Stellatelli, O. A., Bonavita, M. I., Victorel, C., Gómez Alés, R., Moreno Azócar, D. L., Block, C., & Cruz, F. B. (2024). Thermo-physiological changes and reproductive investment in a liolaemid lizard at the extreme of the slow–fast continuum. Journal of Experimental Biology, 227(12), jeb247506. https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.247506
Block, C., Pedrana, J., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Identifying priority areas for conservation of an endangered sand lizard using landscape-based habitat suitability models. Herpetologica, 79(4), 186–195. https://doi.org/10.1655/Herpetologica-D-20-00033
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., Rocca, C., Bellagamba, P. J., Dajil, J. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2022). Latitudinal pattern of the thermal sensitivity of running speed in the endemic lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus. Integrative Zoology, 17(4), 619–637. https://doi.org/10.1111/1749-4877.12579
Dematteis, A., Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., Dajil, J. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2021). Correspondence between thermal biology and locomotor performance in a liolaemid lizard from the southeastern coastal Pampas of Argentina. Journal of Thermal Biology, 103173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.103173
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., Rocca, C., Bellagamba, P. J., & Cruz, F. B. (2020). Latitudinal comparison of the thermal biology in the endemic lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus. Journal of Thermal Biology, 88, 102485. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2019.102485
Vega, L. E., Quinteros, A. S., Stellatelli, O. A., Bellagamba, P. J., Block, C., & Madrid, E. A. (2018). A new species of the Liolaemus alticolor - bibronii group (Iguania: Liolaemidae) from East-central Argentina. Zootaxa, 4379(4), 539–555. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4379.4.6
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., Isacch, J. P., & Cruz, F. B. (2016). Factors affecting the spatial ecology of the lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in the pampasic coastal dunes of Argentina. Herpetological Journal, 26(1), 11–19. https://www.thebhs.org/publications/the-herpetological-journal/volume-26-number-1-january-2016/853-03-factors-affecting-the-spatial-ecology-of-the-lizard-i-liolaemus-wiegmannii-i-in-the-pampasic-coastal-dunes-of-argentina
Block, C., Mora, M. S., Mapelli, J., Stellatelli, O. A., & Vega, L. E. (2016). Primer registro de Liolaemus martorii Abdala, 2003 (Iguania: Liolaemidae) en la provincia de Buenos Aires (Argentina). Cuadernos de Herpetología, 30. http://sedici.unlp.edu.ar/handle/10915/55901
Block, C., Pedrana, J., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2016). Habitat suitability models for the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii based on landscape characteristics in temperate coastal dunes in Argentina. Austral Ecology, 41(6), 671–680. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aec.12356/full
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2015). Nonnative vegetation induces changes in predation pressure and escape behavior of two sand lizards (Liolaemidae: Liolaemus). Herpetologica, 71(2), 136–142. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1655/HERPETOLOGICA-D-14-00026
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2015). Responses of two sympatric sand lizards to exotic forestations in the coastal dunes of Argentina: some implications for conservation. Wildlife Research, 41(6), 480–489. http://www.publish.csiro.au/wr/WR14078
Block, C., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Cruz, F. B., García, G. O., & Isacch, J. P. (2014). Thermoregulation in coastal sand dunes: impacts of the habitat modification on the wiegmann’s lizard. In M. P. Kiernan (Ed.), Lizards: thermal ecology, genetic diversity and functional role in ecosystems (pp. 75–97). Nova Science Publishers.
Stellatelli, O. A., Bó, M. S., Madrid, E. A., Vega, L. E., & Block, C. (2014). Nueva localidad para Liolaemus wiegmannii (Duméril& Bibrón, 1837) en la Provincia de Río Negro (Argentina). Cuadernos de Herpetología, 28(1), 51–52. http://www.scielo.org.ar/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1852-57682014000100012
Block, C., Stellatelli, O. A., García, G. O., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Factors affecting the thermal behavior of the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in natural and modified grasslands of temperate coastal dunes from Argentina. Journal of Thermal Biology, 38(8), 560–569. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306456513001150
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., & Cruz, F. B. (2013). Effects on the thermoregulatory efficiency of two native lizards as a consequence of the habitat modification by the introduction of the exotic tree Acacia longifolia. Journal of Thermal Biology, 38(3), 135–142. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306456513000028
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., & Cruz, F. B. (2013). Effects of tree invasion on the habitat use of sand lizards. Herpetologica, 69(4), 455–465. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1655/HERPETOLOGICA-D-12-00033
Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Stellatelli, O. A. (2012). Vegetation refuges of a sand lizard assemblage in temperate coastal sand dunes. Journal of Herpetology, 46(4), 608–613. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1670/10-335
Dra. Bo Maria Susana
 Researcher UNMDP
Teaching assistant

Dr. Cardoni Augusto
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Smith, M. D., Wilkins, K. D., Holdrege, M. C., Wilfahrt, P., Collins, S. L., Knapp, A. K., Sala, O. E., Dukes, J. S., Phillips, R. P., Yahdjian, L., Gherardi, L. A., Ohlert, T., Beier, C., Fraser, L. H., Jentsch, A., Loik, M. E., Maestre, F. T., Power, S. A., Yu, Q., … Zuo, X. (2024). Extreme drought impacts have been underestimated in grasslands and shrublands globally. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 121(4), e2309881120. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2309881120
Pretelli, M. G., Cavalli, M., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Location matters: Survival of artificial nests is higher in small grassland patches and near the patch edge. Ibis, 165(1), 111–124. https://doi.org/10.1111/ibi.13128
Pretelli, M. G., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Madrid, E., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Sexual dimorphism and parental care in the wren-like rushbird Phleocryptes melanops. Ardeola, 70(1), 29–40. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.70.1.2023.ra1
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2018). Species-area relationships of specialist versus opportunistic pampas grassland birds depend on the surrounding landscape matrix. Ardeola, 65(1), 3–23. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.65.1.2018.ra1
Cardoni, D. A., Isacch, J. P., & Baladrón Felix, A. V. (2017). Causes and consequences of nest mass and structure variation in the bay-capped wren-spinetail Spartonoica maluroides. Acta Ornithologica, 52(1), 51–58. https://doi.org/10.3161/00016454AO2017.52.1.005
Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., & Isacch, J. P. (2017). Breeding biology of the Wren-like Rushbird (Phleocryptes melanops) in the southeast Pampas of Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 129(1), 46–52. https://doi.org/10.1676/1559-4491-129.1.46
Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., Madrid, E., Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Chiaradia, N. M. (2017). Parental care and external sexual characters in the Warbling Doradito (Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris). Journal of Ornithology, 158(1), 159–167.
Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Chiaradia, N. M. (2017). Biología reproductiva y estatus de ocurrencia del doradito común (Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris) nidificando en pastizales al sur de su distribución. Ornitología Neotropical, 27, 317–325. http://journals.sfu.ca/ornneo/index.php/ornneo/article/view/102
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2016). Variation in parental care in the spectacled tyrant Hymenops perspicillatus is associated with increased nest predation in grassland fragments. Journal of Ornithology, 157(2), 451–460.
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2015). Effects of fragmentation and landscape matrix on the nesting success of grassland birds in the Pampas grasslands of Argentina. Ibis, 157(4), 688–699. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ibi.12292/full
Cardoni, D. A., Isacch, J. P., & Iribarne, O. O. (2015). Avian responses to varying intensity of cattle production in Spartina densiflora saltmarshes of south-eastern South America. Emu, 115(1), 12–19.
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., & Cardoni, D. A. (2014). Presas del nuco (asio flammeus) en un área de pastizal pampeano de argentina. Boletín Chileno de Ornitología, 20(1–2), 33–36. http://aveschile.cl/web/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Baladr%C3%B3n-et-al..pdf
Pretelli, M. G., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2014). Diet of nestling spectacled tyrants (Hymenops perspicillatus) in the southeast Pampas region, Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 126(4), 754–759.
Isacch, J. P., Cardoni, D. A., & Iribarne, O. O. (2014). Diversity and habitat distribution of birds in coastal marshes and comparisons with surrounding upland habitats in Southeastern South America. Estuaries and Coasts, 37(1), 229–239.
Cardoni, D. A., Greenberg, R., Maldonado, J. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Morphological adaptation to coastal marshes in spite of limited genetic structure in the Neotropical passerine Spartonoica maluroides (Aves: Furnariidae). Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 109(1), 78–91. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bij.12019/full
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2013). Year-round abundance, richness and nesting of the bird assemblage of tall grasslands in the south-east pampas region, Argentina. Ardeola, 60(2), 327–343. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.13157/arla.60.2.2013.327
Cardoni, D. A., Isacch, J. P., & Iribarne, O. O. (2012). Effects of cattle grazing and fire on the abundance, habitat selection, and nesting success of the bay-capped wren-spinetail (Spartonoica maluroides) in coastal saltmarshes of the Pampas region. The Condor, 114(4), 803–811. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1525/cond.2012.110186
Dra. Cavalli Matilde
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Bó, M. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Respuesta diferencial de la Lechucita Vizcachera (Athene cunicularia) a vocalizaciones heteroespecíficas. El Hornero, 38(1). https://doi.org/10.56178/eh.v38i1.536
Pretelli, M. G., Cavalli, M., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Location matters: Survival of artificial nests is higher in small grassland patches and near the patch edge. Ibis, 165(1), 111–124. https://doi.org/10.1111/ibi.13128
Pretelli, M. G., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Madrid, E., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Sexual dimorphism and parental care in the wren-like rushbird Phleocryptes melanops. Ardeola, 70(1), 29–40. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.70.1.2023.ra1
Cavalli, M., Martínez-Curci, N. S., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Bó, M. S., Chiaradia, N. M., Peluc, S., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Are novel ecosystems suitable habitats for native birds? Birds’ association with spontaneous vegetation patches in the argentinean pampas. Biodiversity and Conservation, 31, 811–830. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-022-02365-1
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Bó, M. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2021). Nest Dimensions, Burrow-Lining, and Decoration Behavior of Burrowing Owls In the Pampas. Journal of Raptor Research, 55(2), 255–266. https://doi.org/10.3356/JRR-19-48
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Cavalli, M., & Bó, M. S. (2018). Activity budgets, foraging behavior, and diet of white-tailed kites (Elanus leucurus) during breeding and nonbreeding seasons in the Argentine Pampas. Journal of Raptor Research, 52(4), 420–431. https://doi.org/10.3356/JRR-17-54.1
Martínez, G., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Bó, M. S., & Isacch, J. P. (2017). Microscale nest-site selection by the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia) in the pampas of Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 129(1), 62–70. https://doi.org/10.1676/1559-4491-129.1.62
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Cavalli, M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Habitat selection by burrowing owls Athene cunicularia in the Pampas of Argentina: a multiple-scale assessment. Acta Ornithologica, 51(2), 137–150. https://doi.org/10.3161/00016454AO2016.51.2.001
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Biondi, L. M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Differential risk perception of rural and urban Burrowing Owls exposed to humans and dogs. Behavioural Processes, 124, 60–65. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376635715300942
Cavalli, M., Isacch, J. P., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Biondi, L. M., & Bó, M. S. (2016). Differing nest-defence behaviour in urban and rural populations of breeding Burrowing Owls. Emu, 116(4), 428–434.
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., & Madrid, E. (2015). Body size and sexual dimorphism in the southernmost subspecies of the Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia cunicularia). Journal of Raptor Research, 49(4), 479–485. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.3356/rapt-49-04-479-485.1
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Martínez, G., & Bó, M. S. (2014). Prey selection and food habits of breeding Burrowing Owls (Athene cunicularia) in natural and modified habitats of Argentine pampas. Emu, 114(2), 184–188. http://www.publish.csiro.au/MU/MU13040
Cavalli, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., & Martínez, G. (2014). Social networks and ornithology studies: an innovative method for rapidly accessing data on conspicuous bird species. Biodiversity and Conservation, 23(8), 2127–2134.
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., & Cardoni, D. A. (2014). Presas del nuco (asio flammeus) en un área de pastizal pampeano de argentina. Boletín Chileno de Ornitología, 20(1–2), 33–36. http://aveschile.cl/web/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Baladr%C3%B3n-et-al..pdf
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Bó, M. S., Cavalli, M., & Martínez, G. (2012). Comparación de la dieta de dos especies de rapaces ornitófagas, el halcón perdiguero (Falco femoralis) y el vari (Circus cinereus), en la región pampeana de Argentina. Boletín Chileno de Ornitología, 18(1–2), 62–67. http://aveschile.cl/boletin/PDF/18/Breve05_BCO%2018_2012.pdf
Dra. Martínez Curci Natalia Soledad
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

Dr. Pretelli Matias Guillermo
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET
Teaching assistant

Pretelli, M. G., & Baladrón Felix, A. V. (2024). Copulation behaviour in the Southern Lapwing (Vanellus chilensis). Acta Ethologica, 27(3), 205–212. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10211-024-00442-y
Pretelli, M. G., Cavalli, M., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Location matters: Survival of artificial nests is higher in small grassland patches and near the patch edge. Ibis, 165(1), 111–124. https://doi.org/10.1111/ibi.13128
Pretelli, M. G., Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Cavalli, M., Madrid, E., & Isacch, J. P. (2022). Sexual dimorphism and parental care in the wren-like rushbird Phleocryptes melanops. Ardeola, 70(1), 29–40. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.70.1.2023.ra1
Hernandez, M. M., Pretelli, M. G., Webb, J., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2022). Vessels as an opportunity to track vagrant non-marine birds in the southwestern South Atlantic. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 134(2), 327–333. https://doi.org/10.1676/21-00002
Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Cavalli, M., & Bó, M. S. (2018). Activity budgets, foraging behavior, and diet of white-tailed kites (Elanus leucurus) during breeding and nonbreeding seasons in the Argentine Pampas. Journal of Raptor Research, 52(4), 420–431. https://doi.org/10.3356/JRR-17-54.1
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2018). Species-area relationships of specialist versus opportunistic pampas grassland birds depend on the surrounding landscape matrix. Ardeola, 65(1), 3–23. https://doi.org/10.13157/arla.65.1.2018.ra1
Chiaradia, N. M., Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., & Isacch, J. P. (2017). Breeding biology of the Wren-like Rushbird (Phleocryptes melanops) in the southeast Pampas of Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 129(1), 46–52. https://doi.org/10.1676/1559-4491-129.1.46
Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., Madrid, E., Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Chiaradia, N. M. (2017). Parental care and external sexual characters in the Warbling Doradito (Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris). Journal of Ornithology, 158(1), 159–167.
Cardoni, D. A., Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Chiaradia, N. M. (2017). Biología reproductiva y estatus de ocurrencia del doradito común (Pseudocolopteryx flaviventris) nidificando en pastizales al sur de su distribución. Ornitología Neotropical, 27, 317–325. http://journals.sfu.ca/ornneo/index.php/ornneo/article/view/102
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2016). Variation in parental care in the spectacled tyrant Hymenops perspicillatus is associated with increased nest predation in grassland fragments. Journal of Ornithology, 157(2), 451–460.
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2015). Effects of fragmentation and landscape matrix on the nesting success of grassland birds in the Pampas grasslands of Argentina. Ibis, 157(4), 688–699. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ibi.12292/full
Pretelli, M. G., Cardoni, D. A., & Isacch, J. P. (2014). Diet of nestling spectacled tyrants (Hymenops perspicillatus) in the southeast Pampas region, Argentina. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 126(4), 754–759.
Baladrón Felix, A. V., & Pretelli, M. G. (2013). Agonistic interactions in raptors of the Pampas region. The Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 125(3), 650–655.
Josens, M. L., Pretelli, M. G., & Escalante, A. H. (2013). Communal roosting of Chimango Caracaras (Milvago chimango) at a shallow lake in the Pampas, Argentina. Journal of Raptor Research, 47(3), 316–319. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.3356/JRR-11-67.1
Pretelli, M. G., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Breeding biology of Spectacled Tyrant (Hymenops perspicillatus) in the southeastern Pampas region, Argentina. Wilson Journal of Ornithology, 125(2), 275–279. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1676/12-143.1
Pretelli, M. G., Isacch, J. P., & Cardoni, D. A. (2013). Year-round abundance, richness and nesting of the bird assemblage of tall grasslands in the south-east pampas region, Argentina. Ardeola, 60(2), 327–343. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.13157/arla.60.2.2013.327
Pretelli, M. G., Josens, M. L., & Escalante, A. H. (2012). Breeding biology at a mixed-species colony of Great Egret and Cocoi Heron in a Pampas wetland of Argentina. Waterbirds, 35(1), 35–43. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1675/063.035.0104
Dr. Stellatelli Oscar Anibal
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET
Teaching assistant
Teaching assistant

Bonavita, M. I., Victorel, C., Rolando, A. M. A., & Stellatelli, O. A. (2024). Nuevo registro de la tortuga acuática Hydromedusa tectifera (Cope, 1869; Testudines: Chelidae) para la Pampa Deprimida (Buenos Aires, Argentina). Cuadernos de Herpetología, 38(2). https://cuadernosdeherpetologia.com/index.php/CdH/article/view/188
Dajil, J. E., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Stellatelli, O. A. (2024). Spatial ecology of a threatened liolaemid lizard: the interplay of intrinsic and environmental factors. Current Herpetology, 43(2), 169–187. https://doi.org/10.5358/hsj.43.169
Stellatelli, O. A., Bonavita, M. I., Victorel, C., Gómez Alés, R., Moreno Azócar, D. L., Block, C., & Cruz, F. B. (2024). Thermo-physiological changes and reproductive investment in a liolaemid lizard at the extreme of the slow–fast continuum. Journal of Experimental Biology, 227(12), jeb247506. https://doi.org/10.1242/jeb.247506
Block, C., Pedrana, J., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2023). Identifying priority areas for conservation of an endangered sand lizard using landscape-based habitat suitability models. Herpetologica, 79(4), 186–195. https://doi.org/10.1655/Herpetologica-D-20-00033
Cruz, F. B., Moreno Azócar, D. L., Perotti, M. G., Acosta, J. C., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Luna, F., Antenucci, C. D., Abdala, C., & Schulte II, J. A. (2022). The role of climate and maternal manipulation in determining and maintaining reproductive mode in Liolaemus lizards. Journal of Zoology, 317(2), 101–113. https://doi.org/10.1111/jzo.12962
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., Rocca, C., Bellagamba, P. J., Dajil, J. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2022). Latitudinal pattern of the thermal sensitivity of running speed in the endemic lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus. Integrative Zoology, 17(4), 619–637. https://doi.org/10.1111/1749-4877.12579
Dematteis, A., Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., Dajil, J. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2021). Correspondence between thermal biology and locomotor performance in a liolaemid lizard from the southeastern coastal Pampas of Argentina. Journal of Thermal Biology, 103173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.103173
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., Rocca, C., Bellagamba, P. J., & Cruz, F. B. (2020). Latitudinal comparison of the thermal biology in the endemic lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus. Journal of Thermal Biology, 88, 102485. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2019.102485
Vega, L. E., Quinteros, A. S., Stellatelli, O. A., Bellagamba, P. J., Block, C., & Madrid, E. A. (2018). A new species of the Liolaemus alticolor - bibronii group (Iguania: Liolaemidae) from East-central Argentina. Zootaxa, 4379(4), 539–555. https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.4379.4.6
Isacch, J. P., Bó, M. S., Vega, L. E., Favero, M., Baladrón Felix, A. V., Pretelli, M. G., Stellatelli, O. A., Cardoni, D. A., Copello, S., Cavalli, M., Block, C., García, G. O., Mariano y Jelicich, R., Biondi, L. M., Comparatore, V., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2016). Diversidad de Tetrápodos en un mosaico de ambientes del sudeste de la ecorregión Pampeana como herramienta para planificar en conservación. Revista del Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales nueva serie, 18(2), 211–233. http://revista.macn.gov.ar/ojs/index.php/RevMus/article/view/463
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., Isacch, J. P., & Cruz, F. B. (2016). Factors affecting the spatial ecology of the lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in the pampasic coastal dunes of Argentina. Herpetological Journal, 26(1), 11–19. https://www.thebhs.org/publications/the-herpetological-journal/volume-26-number-1-january-2016/853-03-factors-affecting-the-spatial-ecology-of-the-lizard-i-liolaemus-wiegmannii-i-in-the-pampasic-coastal-dunes-of-argentina
Block, C., Mora, M. S., Mapelli, J., Stellatelli, O. A., & Vega, L. E. (2016). Primer registro de Liolaemus martorii Abdala, 2003 (Iguania: Liolaemidae) en la provincia de Buenos Aires (Argentina). Cuadernos de Herpetología, 30. http://sedici.unlp.edu.ar/handle/10915/55901
Block, C., Pedrana, J., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2016). Habitat suitability models for the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii based on landscape characteristics in temperate coastal dunes in Argentina. Austral Ecology, 41(6), 671–680. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aec.12356/full
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2015). Nonnative vegetation induces changes in predation pressure and escape behavior of two sand lizards (Liolaemidae: Liolaemus). Herpetologica, 71(2), 136–142. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1655/HERPETOLOGICA-D-14-00026
Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2015). Responses of two sympatric sand lizards to exotic forestations in the coastal dunes of Argentina: some implications for conservation. Wildlife Research, 41(6), 480–489. http://www.publish.csiro.au/wr/WR14078
Block, C., Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Cruz, F. B., García, G. O., & Isacch, J. P. (2014). Thermoregulation in coastal sand dunes: impacts of the habitat modification on the wiegmann’s lizard. In M. P. Kiernan (Ed.), Lizards: thermal ecology, genetic diversity and functional role in ecosystems (pp. 75–97). Nova Science Publishers.
Stellatelli, O. A., Bó, M. S., Madrid, E. A., Vega, L. E., & Block, C. (2014). Nueva localidad para Liolaemus wiegmannii (Duméril& Bibrón, 1837) en la Provincia de Río Negro (Argentina). Cuadernos de Herpetología, 28(1), 51–52. http://www.scielo.org.ar/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1852-57682014000100012
Abdala, C., Procopio, D. E., Stellatelli, O. A., Travaini, A., Rodríguez, A., & Ruiz Monachesi, M. R. (2014). New Patagonian species of Liolaemus (Iguania: Liolaemidae) and novelty in the lepidosis of the southernmost lizard of the world: Liolaemus magellanicus. Zootaxa, 3866(4), 526–542. http://www.mapress.com/zootaxa/2014/f/z03866p542f.pdf
Block, C., Stellatelli, O. A., García, G. O., Vega, L. E., & Isacch, J. P. (2013). Factors affecting the thermal behavior of the sand lizard Liolaemus wiegmannii in natural and modified grasslands of temperate coastal dunes from Argentina. Journal of Thermal Biology, 38(8), 560–569. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306456513001150
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., & Cruz, F. B. (2013). Effects on the thermoregulatory efficiency of two native lizards as a consequence of the habitat modification by the introduction of the exotic tree Acacia longifolia. Journal of Thermal Biology, 38(3), 135–142. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306456513000028
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., & Cruz, F. B. (2013). Effects of tree invasion on the habitat use of sand lizards. Herpetologica, 69(4), 455–465. http://www.bioone.org/doi/abs/10.1655/HERPETOLOGICA-D-12-00033
Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Stellatelli, O. A. (2012). Vegetation refuges of a sand lizard assemblage in temperate coastal sand dunes. Journal of Herpetology, 46(4), 608–613. https://www.bioone.org/doi/full/10.1670/10-335
Dr. Svagelj Walter Sergio
CV-SIGEVA
 Researcher CONICET

González Zevallos, D., Frumento, O., Svagelj, W. S., & Yorio, P. (2022). Just a sailing superstition? Wilson’s storm petrel presence at commercial trawlers at golfo San Jorge, Argentina and its relationship with weather conditions. Academia Letters, 5731. https://www.academia.edu/81588314/JUST_A_SAILING_SUPERSTITION_WILSON_S_STORM_PETREL_PRESENCE_AT_COMMERCIAL_TRAWLERS_AT_GOLFO_SAN_JORGE_ARGENTINA_AND_ITS_RELATIONSHIP_WITH_WEATHER_CONDITIONS
Gómez-Laich, A., Pantano, C., Wilson, R. P., Svagelj, W. S., Yoda, K., Gunner, R., & Quintana, F. (2022). Leg rings impact the diving performance of a foot-propelled diver. Ibis, 164(1), 118–131. https://doi.org/10.1111/ibi.12998
Svagelj, W. S., Gómez‐Laich, A., Pérez, M. R., Somoza, G. M., & Quintana, F. (2021). Sex-specific environmental sensitivity on the postnatal growth of a sexually size-dimorphic seabird. Ibis, 163(3), 1032–1044. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1111/ibi.12920
Yorio, P., Pozzi, L., Herrera, G., Punta, G., Svagelj, W. S., & Quintana, F. (2020). Population trends of Imperial Cormorants (Leucocarbo atriceps) in northern coastal Argentine Patagonia over 26 years. Emu - Austral Ornithology, 120(2), 114–122. https://doi.org/10.1080/01584197.2020.1730192
Svagelj, W. S. (2019). Brood Reduction in Neotropical Birds: Mechanisms, Patterns, and Insights from Studies in the Imperial Shag (Phalacrocorax atriceps). In J. C. Reboreda, V. D. Fiorini, & D. T. Tuero (Eds.), Behavioral Ecology of Neotropical Birds (pp. 87–102). Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-14280-3_5
Svagelj, W. S., Laich, A. G., & Quintana, F. (2019). Richards’s equation and nonlinear mixed models applied to avian growth: why use them? Journal of Avian Biology, 50(1), e01864. https://doi.org/10.1111/jav.01864
Keogan, K., Daunt, F., Wanless, S., Phillips, R. A., Walling, C. A., Agnew, P., Ainley, D. G., Anker-Nilssen, T., Ballard, G., Barrett, R. T., Barton, K. J., Bech, C., Becker, P. H., Berglund, P.-A., Bollache, L., Bond, A. L., Bouwhuis, S., Bradley, R. W., Burr, Z. M., … Lewis, S. (2018). Global phenological insensitivity to shifting ocean temperatures among seabirds. Nature Climate Change, 8(4), 313–318. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41558-018-0115-z
Giudici, P. I., Quintana, F., & Svagelj, W. S. (2017). The role of hatching asynchrony in a seabird species exhibiting obligate brood reduction. Waterbirds, 40(3), 221–232. https://doi.org/10.1675/063.040.0304
Gallo, L., Quintana, F., Svagelj, W. S., & Uhart, M. (2017). Plasma biochemistries and morphometric indices of body condition in imperial cormorant (Phalacrocorax atriceps) chicks. Waterbirds, 40(2), 118–128. https://doi.org/10.1675/063.040.0204
Svagelj, W. S., & Quintana, F. (2017). Sex-specific growth in the imperial cormorant (Phalacrocorax atriceps): when does dimorphism arise? Waterbirds, 40(2), 154–161. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Walter_S_Svagelj/publication/316628560_Sex-specific_growth_in_the_Imperial_Cormorant_Phalacrocorax_atriceps_when_does_dimorphism_arise/links/590896f1458515ebb490a668/Sex-specific-growth-in-the-Imperial-Cormorant-Phalacrocorax-atriceps-when-does-dimorphism-arise.pdf
Berkunsky, I., Segura, L. N., Aramburú, R. M., Ruggera, R. A., Svagelj, W. S., & Reboreda, J. C. (2016). Nest survival and predation in Blue-fronted Parrots Amazona aestiva: effects of nesting behaviour and cavity characteristics. Ardea, 104(2), 143–151.
Graduate Students
Bogel Franco
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

Bonetti Eugenia Andrea
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

Dajil Juan Esteban
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

Dajil, J. E., Block, C., Vega, L. E., & Stellatelli, O. A. (2024). Spatial ecology of a threatened liolaemid lizard: the interplay of intrinsic and environmental factors. Current Herpetology, 43(2), 169–187. https://doi.org/10.5358/hsj.43.169
Stellatelli, O. A., Vega, L. E., Block, C., Rocca, C., Bellagamba, P. J., Dajil, J. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2022). Latitudinal pattern of the thermal sensitivity of running speed in the endemic lizard Liolaemus multimaculatus. Integrative Zoology, 17(4), 619–637. https://doi.org/10.1111/1749-4877.12579
Dematteis, A., Stellatelli, O. A., Block, C., Vega, L. E., Dajil, J. E., & Cruz, F. B. (2021). Correspondence between thermal biology and locomotor performance in a liolaemid lizard from the southeastern coastal Pampas of Argentina. Journal of Thermal Biology, 103173. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtherbio.2021.103173
Fernandez Florencia Estefania
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

Miranda, T. P., Fernandez, M. O., Genzano, G. N., Cantero, Á. L. P., Collins, A. G., & Marques, A. C. (2021). Biodiversity and biogeography of hydroids across marine ecoregions and provinces of southern South America and Antarctica. Polar Biology, 44, 1669–1689. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00300-021-02909-1
Fernandez, R. D., Ceballos, S. J., Aragón, R., Malizia, A., Montti, L. F., Whitworth-Hulse, J. I., Castro-Díez, P., & Grau, H. R. (2020). A Global Review of Ligustrum Lucidum (OLEACEAE) Invasion. The Botanical Review, 86(2), 93–118. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12229-020-09228-w
Sbragaglia, V., Nuñez, J. D., Dominoni, D., Coco, S., Fanelli, E., Azzurro, E., Marini, S., Nogueras, M., Ponti, M., Fernandez, J. R., & Aguzzi, J. (2019). Annual rhythms of temporal niche partitioning in the Sparidae family are correlated to different environmental variables. Scientific Reports, 9(1), 1708. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-37954-0
Martin Sirito Sofia
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

O´connor Tomás
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

Paterlini Carla Ángela
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship

Biondi, L. M., Medina, A., Bonetti, E. A., Paterlini, C. A., & Bó, M. S. (2024). Cognitive flexibility in a generalist raptor: a comparative analysis along an urbanization gradient. Behavioral Ecology, 35(3), arae025. https://doi.org/10.1093/beheco/arae025
Paterlini, C. A., Bó, M. S., Saggese, M. D., Bonetti, E. A., Noseda, R. P., Bigalli, C., & Biondi, L. M. (2024). Prevalence of pathogens in free-living adult chimango caracaras (Milvago chimango) in three areas with different levels of urbanization in the pampas ecoregion, Argentina. Journal of Raptor Research, 58(2), 185–192. https://doi.org/10.3356/JRR-23-61
Paterlini, C. Á., Bó, M. S., Saggese, M. D., & Biondi, L. M. (2023). Hematology and plasma biochemistry reference intervals for free-living adult chimango caracara (Milvago chimango) during the nonbreeding season. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 54(1), 56–64. https://doi.org/10.1638/2021-0147
Seco Pon, J. P., Becherucci, M. E., Paterlini, C. Á., Quadri Adrogué, A., Castano, M. V., Zumpano, F., & García, G. O. (2022). Perception, knowledge and attitudes towards environmental issues and management among coastal users of the most important beach destination in Argentina. Ocean & Coastal Management, 220, 106070. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2022.106070
García, G. O., Paterlini, C. Á., Hernandez, M. M., Behotas, R. T., Favero, M., & Seco Pon, J. P. (2020). Hematology and plasma chemistry values in beached Magellanic Penguin (Spheniscus magellanicus) in northern Argentina during the nonbreeding season. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 50(4), 927–936. https://doi.org/10.1638/2019-0012
García, G. O., Paterlini, C. Á., Favero, M., Becker, P. H., & Bouwhuis, S. (2020). Age-, sex- and tactic-specific kleptoparasitic performance in a long-lived seabird. Journal of Ornithology, 161(1), 183–188. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10336-019-01726-y
García, G. O., Paterlini, C. Á., Castano, M. V., Nicolli, A. R., Zumpano, F., & Favero, M. (2019). Serum biochemistry values for the Olrog’s gull (Larus atlanticus): a study based on free-living individuals. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 50(2), 330–336. https://doi.org/10.1638/2018-0073
Paterlini, C. Á., García, G. O., Riechert, J., & Becker, P. H. (2017). Concentrations of hormones during the mid-incubation period in kleptoparasitic and honest common terns Sterna hirundo. Acta Ornithologica, 52(2), 157–165. https://doi.org/10.3161/00016454AO2017.52.2.004
Berón, M. P., Seco Pon, J. P., García, G. O., Paterlini, C. Á., Mariano y Jelicich, R., & Favero, M. (2013). The diet of Olrog’s Gull (Larus atlanticus) reveals an association with fisheries during the non-breeding season. Emu, 113(1), 69–76.
Favero, M., Blanco, G., Copello, S., Seco Pon, J. P., Paterlini, C. Á., Mariano y Jelicich, R., García, G. O., & Berón, M. P. (2013). Seabird bycatch in the Argentinean demersal longline fishery, 2001- 2010. Endangered Species Research, 19(3), 187–199. http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/esr/v19/n3/p187-199
Berón, M. P., Caballero-Sadi, D., Paterlini, C. Á., Seco Pon, J. P., García, G. O., & Favero, M. (2012). Espectro trófico de la Gaviota de Olrog (Larus atlanticus) en dos sitios de invernada de Argentina y Uruguay. Ornitologia Neotropical, 23, 83–93. http://www.academia.edu/download/30412438/Beron_et_al._2012.pdf
Román Stella Beatriz
CV-SIGEVA
 Graduate fellowship