DYNAMICS OF PASSERINE BIRD PRESENCE AT CETAS/ES (2011–2024) AS AN INDICATOR OF OPERATIONAL PRESSURE AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

Abstract

The Wildlife Screening Center of Espírito Santo (CETAS/ES) constitutes a strategic component of federal environmental policy, acting in the reception, screening, rehabilitation, and destination of wildlife. This study complements previous diagnose regarding the volume of animal entries at CETAS/ES by analyzing, in an unprecedented manner, the temporal dynamics of passerine permanence between 2011 and 2024. The research is based on documentary analysis of consolidated administrative spreadsheets, as well as data from the Wildlife Screening Centers Management System (SISCETAS), applying standardized data consistency criteria and descriptive statistical methods. The results demonstrate a progressive and structural increase in the average length of stay starting in 2018, with a peak in 2021, followed by a partial reduction in subsequent years, without a return to initial historical levels. Graphical analysis indicates that the increase in length of stay is not directly associated solely with the rise in the number of entries, suggesting operational limitations, greater case complexity, and challenges related to wildlife destination. It is concluded that length of stay represents an important indicator of systemic pressure and should be incorporated as a management tool, institutional planning instrument, and a basis for the formulation of public policies aimed at wildlife conservation.