Avian Fauna Research Articles

A checklist of avian fauna of Suang Reserve Forest, Nagaon, Assam, India with notes on some species of interest

This study presents the first avian checklist from the Suang Reserve Forest of Nagaon, Assam, India. The study conducted between 2018 and 2023 documented 228 bird species belonging to 18 orders and 64 families of which four are globally threatened according to the IUCN Red List. Passeriformes was the most dominant order, with 128 species. Among non-passerines, Piciformes exhibited the highest richness (15 species), followed by Cuculiformes and Accipitriformes (13 species each). The family Muscicapidae had the greatest species diversity (21 species), followed by Accipitridae (13 species), Phylloscopidae (11 species), and Picidae (11 species). We also documented 38 winter visitors and seven summer migrants in the reserve forest. Noteworthy findings included rare sightings of the White-cheeked Partridge and Grey Peacock-Pheasant, and unusual sightings of Wreathed Hornbill and Pacific Golden Plover. The results showed the healthy condition of the forest and its high biodiversity value, despite the study limitations due to inaccessible terrain. We recommend extensive documentation of avifauna and other biodiversity for this region for future conservation planning.

Farmland Birds and their Importance in Agro ecosystem: A Review

Avian fauna provide a variety of functions, including predators, pollinators, scavengers, seed dispersers, pests controller, nutrient cycling, ecosystem engineers, and many others. Birds play important ecological and economic functions however they are sometimes overlooked simply because of a lack of knowledge. However, as bird populations drop globally, so do the ecological advantages given by these species. To support bird conservation, this review study focuses on the role of birds in the agro-ecosystem and their benefits to humans. Biodiversity databases and existing literature were reviewed to establish baseline information on farmland bird species and their preferences. Searches were limited to articles published between 2005 to 2024. Healthy bird populations and habitats would help to safeguard a variety of ecological functions, ultimately benefiting human health. Farmland birds are disappearing. Due to the widespread use of pesticides, lack of habitat, birds and other animals are disappearing and unnecessary harmful pest species are increasing and the agricultural environment is deteriorating. So, this review paper tries to emphasize on urgent conservation measures that are necessary for the protection of agricultural birds which are essential for the health of both natural and agricultural environments.

Impact of Nesting Materials on Breeding Success of Selected Avian Fauna: A Case Study from Agro-Ecosystem, Cauvery Deltaic Region of Tamil Nadu, Southern India

Impact of Nesting Materials on Breeding Success of Selected Avian Fauna: A Case Study from Agro-Ecosystem, Cauvery Deltaic Region of Tamil Nadu, Southern India

Roadside Reflection of Nigeria's Declining Vultures: A study across Five Contiguous States (Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, and Enugu)

Globally, vultures and other raptors are facing a critical population crisis, with forecasts suggesting that up to 40% of species may become extinct within the next 30 years. This alarming declining trend is particularly pronounced in Africa, where vulture populations have drastically declined, with many species experiencing severe reductions or even local extinctions. In Nigeria, this decline is especially severe, with historical records indicating once-abundant vulture populations now reduced to only a few remaining species. This study aimed to evaluate the current status of vultures and other raptors across five contiguous states in Nigeria: Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, and Enugu. The survey was conducted from January 28 to February 2, 2019, using an open Hillux traveling at 45 km/hour. Observations were made by two researchers from an opened truck, who recorded the number of raptors encountered and their locations at various times of the day. Data analysis was done using a Generalized Linear Model (GLM) in R to assess species abundance and compare raptor abundance across the states. The results were visualised using bar charts. A total of 217 raptors were sighted, with Yellow-billed Kites (Milvus aegyptius) being the most numerous, followed by Common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus). Vultures were significantly less abundant, with only three Palm-nut Vultures (Gypohierax angolensis) and two Hooded Vultures (Necrosyrtes monachus) recorded. This stark contrast highlights the severe decline in vulture populations in Nigeria, underlining the urgent need for conservation actions. The findings emphasise the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts to protect vultures and other raptors. Recommendations include, increasing public awareness, implementing protective legislation, and improving habitat management. Engaging local communities and enforcing laws against illegal hunting and trade in avian fauna are essential for preserving Nigeria’s raptor populations and preventing further declines.

Avian Fauna of KSCSTE-Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute for Plant Sciences, Kozhikode District, Kerala, India

Avian Fauna of KSCSTE-Malabar Botanical Garden and Institute for Plant Sciences, Kozhikode District, Kerala, India

SEASONAL VARIATION AND ABUNDANCE, RESIDENTIAL AND IUCN STATUS OF AVIAN DIVERSITY IN FOREST COMMUNITY IN JASHPUR DISTRICT (C.G.)

Birds are one of the most important units in the food chain on this planet. They play significant role in the environment. They are good indicators for understanding climate changing in the ecosystems. Birds attract peoples due to their fascinating colors, courtship behavior, sound and their beauty. The present study was carried out in Forest Community in Jashpur District (C.G.) between January to December 2021 with the objectives to explore the bird diversity and seasonal variation along with the factors affecting bird diversity in the study area. Mackinnon’s Listing Method and Point Count Method were used for bird survey during winter and summer seasons. In the present study, attempt has been made to collect the relevant information regarding the avian fauna of around the study site Jashpur (C.G.). The periodic survey of the study area, showed great deal of avian biodiversity. During the study period, a total of 102 bird species during the two year periods belonging to 15 orders and 39 families were reported were recorded. Various bird species recorded during the whole period of study in “Forest area near Sarudih tea garden area (Site A), nearly village Gamharia (Site B) and near Neemgoan dam (Site-C) Jashpur (C.G.).” were given the IUCN status (Table 5.9) so that the conservational measures could be suggested/adopted accordingly. A comparison of the recorded avian species was made with the recent Red Data List published by IUCN. Accordingly, these bird species were categorized into two IUCN categories, namely, Least Concern (LC) and Endangered (EN). According to Red Data Book of IUCN 102, “Globally threatened” species were also recorded from the study area. Out of 100 globally threatened species, and only 2 species was in endangered category.

Diversity of Avian Fauna in Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary, Ariyalur District, Tamil Nadu, India

Diversity of Avian Fauna in Karaivetti Bird Sanctuary, Ariyalur District, Tamil Nadu, India

A conservation assessment of birds in the Karoo region of South Africa: densities, populations, ranges, and trend estimates

The Karoo region of South Africa, which includes the Succulent and Nama Karoo biomes, supports a unique avian fauna, with ten bird species occurring exclusively in this arid-zone region and many others exhibiting a strong preference for this habitat. To better determine the conservation status of these birds, we conducted point counts to estimate population densities of bird species occurring in the South African Karoo region in 2017 and 2018. We also used data of the South African Bird Atlas Projects (SABAP2) to estimate the species’ ranges and to determine population trends. Although the population densities are naturally low for most species, their ranges are very large, and reporting-rate trends appear stable for most species. Our analysis reveals that none of the Karoo bird species are currently of serious conservation concern. However, the Red Lark Calendulauda burra and Sclater’s Lark Spizocorys sclateri should be considered regionally Near Threatened as they are habitat specialists with inferred declining populations and are not currently protected within any designated conservation areas. Given the rapid transformation of landscapes linked to mining and alternative energy developments currently underway in the Karoo, combined with the poor representation of bird species in protected areas, it is imperative that special attention be paid to the conservation of bird species endemic to the Karoo, and that appropriate mitigation measures be taken by developers.

Mammal species biodiversity in a Costa Rican protected tropical rainforest environment

Tropical rainforest deforestation has led to old-growth forest loss and declines in species diversity worldwide. In the 1980’s, Costa Rica began innovative reforestation efforts and currently 52% of Costa Rica is a tropical forest environment. However, the impact of Costa Rica’s reforestation efforts on regaining species biodiversity is less known. The aim of this study was to consider longitudinal changes in mammal biodiversity at La Selva Biological Station (LSBS) following reforestation. Mammal species census data were collected between 1994 and 2017 by 30-60 trained and experienced Citizen Scientists. We calculated the total number of different species sighted per year, their relative abundance, and the Shannon Index to estimate biodiversity. Linear regression was used to consider change over time and ANOVA was used to consider differences in land and water use by mammal species (p<0.05). Results suggest the total number of different species observed declined, their relative abundance declined, and the Shannon index of biodiversity declined (p<0.05). This decline is similar to that reported for avian fauna, terrestrial amphibian, and dung beetle species reported at LSBS. Our study highlights the concern that past deforestation continues to lead to species decline and the ongoing need for tropical forest stewardship.

Impacts of Artificial Lighting on Avian Biodiversity: A Case Study of Udaipur (Rajasthan), India

The pervasive presence of artificial light in urban environments significantly affects biodiversity. This study investigates the impact of light pollution on avian biodiversity in Udaipur, India. Excessive artificial lighting alters natural habitats, disrupts ecosystems, and affects the behaviour and abundance of various avian species. The study was conducted in Udaipur from December 2019 to March 2023, utilizing Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) DNB Free Cloud Composite Imagery and field surveys. The research spanned rural and urban landscapes, employing methods such as timed species counts and point counts to assess avian fauna. The Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index was used to measure biodiversity, with ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc tests for statistical analysis. VIIRS data analysis revealed three light pollution clusters: dark, moderately dark, and bright areas. Avian diversity varied across these clusters, with significantly higher diversity observed in dark areas. Daytime and night time observations also showed variations, with higher biodiversity observed at night. Common species exhibited significantly higher abundance in brighter areas, while moderately dark and dark areas supported greater diversity. Artificial lighting has profound effects on avian biodiversity in Udaipur. Bright areas exhibit reduced biodiversity, while dark areas support richer ecosystems. This study underscores the importance of managing light pollution to preserve avian diversity and maintain ecological balance in urban environments.

Unveiling the Heaven: First Sighting of Four Avian Species in Kibber Wildlife Santuary, Trans Himalayan Ecosystem, Himachal Pradesh, India

Globally all mountains including the Himalaya are highly susceptible ecosystems due to the given climatic conditions and land-use changes. Field observations play crucial role in grasping the birds distribution species in biologically and evolutionary important regions particularly in Trans Himalayan ecosystem like the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary with abundant avian species diversity among all vertebrates found in sanctuary. Present research paper deals with significant bird species sightings in this hard-to-access sanctuary. These bird sightings show how conducting biological surveys and continuous monitoring work help to enhance our understanding using various methods. The stratified random sampling technique was employed for avian fauna survey. Earlier, there were almost negligible efforts made on comprehensive studies of vertebrate diversity in the Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary which makes this study more significant as it will be the baseline information for the forest department and scientific research. The records of four documented birds species are valuable especially since these all are first sightings in the KWS and their IUCN status was also evaluated. Listing of bird’s species will contribute to a better understanding of birds distribution and will be helpful for future research and conservation plans.

Diversity and species richness of avian fauna in varied habitats of Soraipung range and vicinity in Dehing Patkai National Park, India

Dehing Patkai National Park, nestled in Assam’s Upper Brahmaputra valley, features a distinctive lowland forest landscape dominated by Dipterocarpus trees, teeming with fauna encompassing reptiles, birds, and mammals. Avian surveys were conducted from October 2021 to September 2023 to document avifaunal diversity within and surrounding the park. Point-transect method was used. One-hundred-and-fifty-one species from 54 families were recorded, including 43 terrestrial and 11 aquatic bird families. One-hundred-and twenty-seven species were residents, 18 winter migrants, five summer migrants, and one was a local migrant. Habitat disturbance was assessed across five transects; undisturbed habitats in T1 and T2 showed the highest Shannon-Wiener diversity index, while moderately and highly disturbed habitats in T3, T4, and T5 exhibited lower diversity. The analysis revealed a significant positive correlation (p ≤ 0.05) among different transects. A total of seven species (Ashy-headed Green Pigeon, Lesser Adjutant, White-cheeked Partridge, Alexandrine Parakeet, Red-breasted Parakeet, Austen’s Brown Hornbill, and Oriental Darter) are classified as ‘Near Threatened’ in the IUCN Red List of Threatened species; 12 species are in Schedule 1 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. This investigation underscores Dehing Patkai National Park’s significance as a sanctuary for diverse bird populations, including threatened and near-threatened species. The decline in bird populations in disturbed areas emphasizes the urgency of implementing effective conservation and management strategies within the park, alongside continued research and monitoring to support its unique avian ecosystem.

Avian fauna of Mount Melibengoy, southern Mindanao, Philippines: conservation implications on a partially protected key biodiversity area under threat

Mount Melibengoy is a partially protected key biodiversity area in southern Mindanao, Philippines faced with many anthropogenic pressures. Pushing for the holistic and evidence-based protection of this mountain requires reports on empirical biodiversity data, which are currently limited for the area. To augment this information, we conducted opportunistic field surveys between September 2020 and August 2022 and collated related data to generate a list of avian fauna in Mt Melibengoy would serve as a baseline for informed management interventions and future research. We recorded 130 avian species from 49 families and 104 genera, of which 68 species are considered Philippine endemics and 19 species are only found in Mindanao, including the rarely observed Mindanao lorikeet (Saudareous johnstoniae). The presence of several avian species of scientific and conservation importance requires immediate attention from concerned stakeholders to address habitat modifications and disturbances occurring in portions within and outside the Protected Area. Albeit preliminary, our results provide the much-needed evidence to justify the immediate protection of the unprotected forests of Mt Melibengoy and strengthen its already existing management mechanisms.

Extent of damage by avian fauna in maize and the measures for management

Extent of damage by avian fauna in maize and the measures for management

Study on Avian Fauna of Morgaon Region of Pune (Maharashtra), India

Study on Avian Fauna of Morgaon Region of Pune (Maharashtra), India

Diversity, Biodiversity Indices and Conservation Status of Avian Fauna in Tnau Campus at Madurai

Diversity, Biodiversity Indices and Conservation Status of Avian Fauna in Tnau Campus at Madurai

Evaluation of the vulnerability of wild bird populations during heatwave events: implications for biodiversity conservation

Heatwaves, defined as prolonged periods of excessive heat, are becoming more frequent and severe due to global climate change. These extreme heat events can have significant impacts on ecosystems and wildlife, particularly on avian fauna. Birds, as vital components of ecosystems, are highly susceptible to the adverse effects of heatwaves. Impacts directly attributable to adverse weather and changing climate regimes include a higher risk of mortality, reduced breeding success, compromised body condition and immunocompetence, declining populations, range changes, and potentially maladaptive behavioral adjustments in foraging, parental care, and migration. This vulnerability is exacerbated by the loss and degradation of their natural habitats, which hinders their ability to adapt to constantly changing climatic conditions. Understanding the vulnerability of bird populations during heatwaves is essential for devising effective conservation strategies. Conservation efforts should focus on preserving and restoring critical bird habitats, providing access to freshwater sources, and creating artificial shelters. Additionally, public education plays a significant role in raising awareness about the importance of bird conservation during heatwave events and in the broader context of climate change. In analyzing the subject, the study aims to provide more precise information to support the public decisions to be made, as well as to guide awareness for the implementation of conservation actions.

Habitat Utilization and Feeding Pattern of Avifauna in Goalpara College Campus, Goalpara, Assam, India

A study on habitat utilization and feeding pattern of avian diversity was carried out in Goalpara College campus of Goalpara district, Assam. A total of 44 species of birds belonging to 30 families were recorded and studied. Based on food type eaten, the birds were categorized into seven categories. Variation in number of species based on food type was tested and variation was found insignificant (p=2.22). However, insectivorous category was found to be dominating over other categories. The habitat selection of avian fauna of the campus was also analyzed, and the habitat type H-1 was found to be species rich (38.6%, 17 species) and H-4 type as species-poor habitat (13.6%, 6 species). The order of habitats in terms of species richness is H-1(38.6%, 17 species) > H-3 (27.3%, 12 species) > H-2 (20.5%, 9 species) > H-4 (13.6%, 6 species). The Shannon index for the recorded species showed highest diversity in the habitat type H-1 (H’=1.053) and least diversity in habitat type H-4 (H’=0.577). The study indicates that the college campus provide a suitable habitat for the birds species providing food materials, water, shelters, roosting, and nesting sites. Since birds play a vital role in the ecosystem as pollinators, seed dispersers and help in regeneration of flowering plants and thereby reforestation, therefore an attempt has been made to determine the avian diversity of the college campus with special reference to their habitat utilization and feeding pattern. This study highlights the role of modified habitats to maintain the urban biodiversity. This study will provide base line information on avifauna of Goalpara town which could be useful for management of their habitats.

Protection and mortality of non-target terrestrial bird species during the eradication of rodents on Lord Howe Island

To eliminate the destructive impact of rodents on islands, conservation practitioners commonly use rodenticides to eradicate these pests. Frequently used rodenticides, such as brodifacoum, are non-specific. Consequently, non-target species may be susceptible to the poison. While mitigation actions to protect against unwanted impacts on non-target species are often included in eradication planning, such impacts are rarely measured or reported. In 2019, a rodent eradication program was implemented on Lord Howe Island to remove ship rats and house mice. To protect the island’s unique suite of endemic avian fauna, a comprehensive monitoring and mitigation plan was implemented. Following assessments of potential effects of baiting on island-species, two endemic species were taken into captive management during the eradication. To assess effects on other species, a total of 243 ha of bushland was searched over a 14-week period and an additional 190 ha was searched in the island’s settlement area for carcasses of non-targets. These surveys found that buff-banded rails suffered the highest level of mortality, but few carcasses of endemic species were found. The captive management program was successful with more than 95% of individuals that were taken into captivity being released at the end of the program. Post-eradication surveys of captive-managed species have shown that the endemic woodhen population has increased by nearly five-fold on pre-eradication levels and that endemic currawong numbers have also increased. Surveys of other bush birds have found higher numbers for most species and shows that pre-eradication assessments of these species being at lower risk were appropriate.

Volcanism-driven lacustrine redox fluctuations were responsible for the formation of the Jehol Lagerstätte: Evidence from a high-resolution Aptian sedimentary core, Northeast China

While a “volcanic Pompeii” model is well accepted as the cause of mass mortality and exceptional preservation of the Jehol Biota, no consensus has been reached thus far regarding the cause of mass mortality of fossils found in interbedded finely laminated sediments. We propose that volcanically driven, lacustrine redox fluctuations were responsible for the formation of the Jehol Lagerstätte, based on data obtained from a new drill core of Lower Cretaceous sedimentary rocks in the Chaoyang Basin, Northeast China. We found manganese-rich carbonates are interbedded with molybdenum-rich black mudstones and tuffs, and phosphatized fossils in the drill core. The elemental enrichment factors for molybdenum are much higher than for uranium in the black mudstones, suggesting the role of the manganese particulate-shuttle in deposition of this element. The manganese-rich carbonates are formed by the reaction of manganese oxides with organic matter, indicating an oxidized water column. This process accelerates the enrichment of molybdenum under anoxic non-sulfidic conditions. The interbedded manganese carbonates and molybdenum-rich mudstones thus record redox fluctuations in the lacustrine depositional environment. Given the numerous tephra in the black mudstones and soft-sediment deformation structures ostensibly associated with seismicity, we propose that the redox fluctuations were caused by lake eutrophication and turnover driven by volcanism that was ultimately related to the destruction of the North China Craton. These volcanically induced redox fluctuations, along with the toxicity of the volcanic gases, may have caused the simultaneous mass mortality of aquatic, terrestrial, and avian fauna. Micro-X-ray fluorescence, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and Raman mapping show that the preservation of fossils was mainly due to phosphatization. Fluctuating redox conditions facilitated phosphate enrichment in sediments. Both the oxic and anoxic non-sulfidic conditions were conducive to the preservation of organisms by phosphatization, and oxidation was favorable for phosphate mineralization, both contributing to the exceptional preservation of the Jehol Biota fossils.