Waterfowl population survey of the Marcali reservoir (2007–2008)

Abstract

This study has shown that the Marcali reservoir is an important waterbird wetland habitat especially during the migration period. Based on our findings early springtime season proved to be the most important season concerning bird activities on the reservoir. The reservoir and its surroundings are not specifically important as breeding areas; although, some strictly protected species can be found among the breeding species. It is noteworthy to mention the strong disturbance (waterfolw hunting, intensive fishing, poaching) in the area that can have a negative impact on the breeding success of bird species. The results of similarity measures showed remarkable differences between the bird communities of different seasons. Waterbird communities of the spring season and summer season showed the highest similarity, since part of the species observed during the spring surveys were most probably breeding species that remained in the reservoir area for the summer. Comparison based on bird species diversity showed significant differences between communities of the different seasons. Diversity was higher both in the breeding and the migration season compared with the winter period characterized by the lowest species richness and number of individuals. Water level has proved to be an important determining factor of waterbird species richness.