A checklist of avifauna from different microhabitats in Muttukadu backwaters, Tamilnadu, India

Abstract

Muttukadu backwaters cover an area of 215.36 acres and lies between 12.8006°N latitude and 80.2363°E longitude. It is situated in Chengalpet district of Tamilnadu, India. This backwater forms a network of microhabitats for different kind of birds. The exchange of seawater and freshwater in this region regulates salinity and nutrient levels, increasing the diversity of baseline producers and consumers in the ecosystem, which attracts and sustains waterbirds. Bird survey was conducted during July 2021–March 2023 using block count and total count method. Identification was done up to species level by using standard field guides. The objective of this study is to prepare a checklist of avian species in different microhabitats based on their habitat preference, feeding habits, migratory, and conservation status. During the present study, a total of 124 species belonging to 19 orders and 45 families were recorded. Among them, seven near-threatened species were recorded. The presence of significant number of migrants and threatened species indicates the importance, both ecologically and biologically of the study area for resident and migratory birds. The current checklist represents the first attempt to compile a comprehensive list of the birds found in the Muttukadu backwaters.