A map of spatial preferences of wildlife birds of the unare coastal system of Eastern Venezuela

In this paper, we explore the use of a map of spatial preference for wildlife as a tool for environmental assessment to predict animal distribution, instead of using a map of vegetation cover types. The underlying idea of the map of spatial preference is for a planner to be able to understand the wildlife perception of the environment and to predict wildlife distribution. It is suggested that other types of surface cover beside vegetation are important to support wildlife conservation. Ideas for developing a map of spatial preference are presented and are applied to a case study of a coastal area. The results permit the definition of areas for preservation, as well as those with potential for development. Proposals are made for environmental assessment in coastal areas, in general, and particularly, in Venezuela.