The effect of mangrove restoration on avian assemblages of a coastal lagoon in southern Mexico

Background Mangrove forests provide many ecosystem services, including the provision of habitat that supports avian biodiversity. However, hurricanes can knock down trees, alter hydrologic connectivity, and affect avian habitat. In 1995, Hurricanes Opal and Roxanne destroyed approximately 1,700 ha of mangrove forest in Laguna de Terminos, Mexico. Since then, hydrological restoration has been implemented to protect the mangrove forest and its biodiversity.