Tweeting Trends: Unmasking the Birds of Madurai South, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Wetlands, acting as complex ecosystems bridging aquatic and terrestrial habitats, play a vital role in avian conservation. Despite the extensive use of bird communities in biodiversity conservation, there is a notable lacunae in baseline data, particularly for common avian species. This study aims to address this knowledge gap, providing a foundational dataset for avifauna in the wetlands of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. The survey conducted from January 2022 to December 2023 covered five wetlands: Madakulam, Thenkarai, Koothiyarkundu, Avaniyapuram, and Samanatham. A total of 151 species belonging to 55 families have been observed during the study period. The results highlight the prevalence of Passeriformes, with 51 species. Among the study sites, Samanatham recorded the highest species count, with 124 species, while Thenkarai site recorded the lowest with 82 species. Analysis of feeding guild revealed a diverse range of feeding habits, with 36% being insectivores. The analysis of relative abundance showed that 55% of the population is common (C), and concurrent analysis revealed 64% as residents and 27% being winter visitors. Notably, eight “Nearly threatened” such as Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus, Osprey Pandion haliaetus, Bar Tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica, Black Tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Spot Billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis, Black Headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus and three “Vulnerable” species, such as the River Tern Sterna aurantia, Greater Spotted Eagle Clanga clanga and Indian Spotted Eagle Clanga hastata, were observed. Throughout the study period, the months of March and April recorded the highest number of individuals across all study sites. A noticeable correlation between the abundance of microhabitats within the wetlands and the concentration of individuals was observed in the Madakulam site. In conclusion, this study serves as a critical step in addressing the dearth of baseline data for avian diversity in Madurai's wetlands. The findings contribute to the broader understanding of ecological dynamics and provide essential information for effective conservation strategies. To ensure a comprehensive approach in safeguarding the delicate balance within wetland ecosystems, ongoing monitoring will extend to environmental conditions, vegetation dynamics, other biotic resources, and potential threats to the avifauna.