Priorities for Future Research

Research is greatly needed to address all aspects of the biology of Orange-breasted Bunting. The most extensively detailed information available is related to molts and systematics, but little else is known is known about the natural history of this species. Particularly lacking is information on reproduction, with no studies on breeding phenology, nesting success, number of broods, predation rates, territoriality, or sexual behavior. No information is known on wild birds’ diets and how this affects its distribution, particularly in the southern part of its range. There is no information on the existence of, or extent of, seasonal movements and whether (or why) it depends on different habitats during the breeding season. Research on how it interacts with Rose-bellied Bunting (P. rositae) may also shed light on why it does not occur over much seemingly suitable habitat in Chiapas. Perhaps most urgent are studies addressing the impacts of deforestation and the cage bird trade, how these affect populations, reproductive success, how popular the bird is in the latter, and whether these are correlated in any way.