Threskiornis Melanocephalus Research Articles

Seasonal Dynamics and Avian Diversity along the Adyar Riverbank: Insights from a Year-Long Survey

The avian survey conducted along the Adyar Riverbank (Manapakkam) from January 2023 to December 2023 documented a total of 3120 individual birds across 75 species from 16 avian orders, highlighting the significant biodiversity within this urban ecosystem. This study aimed to assess seasonal variations in bird diversity and abundance, emphasizing the river’s role as an important habitat. The highest diversity was observed during winter, specifically in February 2023, with a diversity index of 296.80 and a Simpson’s index of 0.22. A total of 36 species and 636 individuals were recorded. In contrast, the lowest diversity was observed in summer, particularly in July 2023, with a diversity index of 29.29 and a Simpson’s index of 0.05, corresponding to 18 species and 114 individuals. The monsoon and post-monsoon periods exhibited a prominent increase in diversity due to the arrival of migratory species and improved habitat conditions. Important species recorded throughout the year included the Paddy Field Pipit, House Crow, and Rufous Treepie, while conservation-significant species such as the Black-headed Ibis and Spot-billed Pelican were also observed. Thus, the present study underscores the Adyar River’s ecological importance and highlights the need for continuous monitoring and targeted conservation efforts to maintain avian biodiversity in urban river ecosystems.

Avifaunal species richness and composition at Masani barrage, district Rewari, Haryana

Masani barrage act as wintering spot for wide range of migratory as well as residential avian species. Their population estimation is to comprehend group dynamics, niche relationships, habitat preferences, and other behavioral features. An ornithological survey was conducted at Masani barrage, district Rewari, Haryana from April 2022 to March 2023 with the help of scan sampling and point count methodology. A total of 150 bird species belonging to 18 orders and 49 families were recorded, among which 94 species were resident; 47 species were winter migrant and 9 species were summer migrant of the observed feeding guilds, Carnivores were the highly dominated followed by Insectivores (41 species), Omnivores (36 species), Herbivores (9 species) and others. Species such as Ferruginous Pochard, Black-tailed Godwit, Eurasian Curlew, Asian woollyneck, Painted stork, Black-necked Stork, Rufous-vented Grass-babbler, Black-headed Ibis, Lesser Flamingo, Oriental Darter and Alexandrine parakeet fall under near-threatened (NT) category of IUCN Conservation status. Data collected from avifaunal species at the barrage can be utilized as a baseline for analyzing future perspectives and developing appropriate management plans for protection and long-term use.

Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus (Latham, 1790): a review on ecology, behavior, conservation and management

The specific epithet melanocephalus is derived from Greek words meaning "black" (melas) and "head" (kephalē), referring to the distinctive black plumage on the head and neck of the Black-headed Ibis. The Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) stands as a captivating symbol of avian grace amidst wetland habitats across Asia. With its distinctive black head contrasting against a white body, this elegant bird captivates both ornithologists and birdwatchers alike. In this review, we delve into the ecology, behavior, and conservation status of the Black-headed Ibis, shedding light on its significance in the avian world. It is a striking bird species belonging to the ibis family, Threskiornithidae. Known for its distinctive appearance and graceful appearance, this bird captivates observers across its range in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Middle East. Threskiornis melanocephalus is commonly found in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and parts of the Middle East, where it inhabits freshwater marshes, flooded grasslands, and shallow lakes. While not globally threatened, this species faces localized threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and hunting, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts to safeguard its populations and their wetland habitats.1

Diversity and Abundance of Wetland Birds in Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary, Tiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu, India

Wetland birds are integral components of wetland ecosystems, providing ecological, economic, cultural, and regulatory benefits. The study conducted from 2021 to 2024 in the Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary of Tiruvarur district aimed to assess year-wise species diversity, richness, relative diversity, evenness, density, and relative abundance of wetland birds employing the total count method to estimate the population of wetland birds. A total of 104 bird species belonging 18 orders and 49 families were recorded. During this study, 17 species were migrant, while the remaining 87 birds were resident. Three bird species were classified as Near Threatened, including the Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanosephalus), and Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster). Additionally, two bird species were classified as Vulnerable, namely the Greater Spotted Eagle (Clanga clanga) and River Tern (Sterna hirundo), while 99 bird species were classified as Least Concern. Regarding species diversity in the Udayamarthandapuram Bird Sanctuary during different years, the highest species diversity was recorded in 2021 (2.75), while the lowest species diversity was observed in 2024 (1.64). In terms of species richness, the maximum richness was observed in 2023 (68), whereas the minimum species richness was recorded in 2022 (29).

Status, Diversity and Species Composition of Wetland Birds on Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary, Tiruvarur District, Tamil Nadu, India

Birds serve as the best indicators of wetland function and as measures of success in wetland management, restoration, and creation. This study was conducted from 2022 to 2024 in the Vaduvoor Bird Sanctuary of Tiruvarur district, employing the total count method to estimate the population of wetland birds. Year-wise species diversity, richness, relative diversity, evenness, density, and relative abundance were calculated. A total of 147 bird species belonging to 48 families and 18 orders were recorded. The maximum diversity and evenness were observed in 2024 (3.05 and 0.37), while the minimum values were recorded in 2023 (2.11 and 0.21). The total density was highest in 2023 (162.68/ha) and lowest in 2024 (27.82/ha), and species richness peaked in 2022 (117) and was lowest in 2024 (84). This sanctuary complex supports three IUCN Red-listed, four Near Threatened species: Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea), Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanosephalus), and Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster), two vulnerable species: Yellow-throated Bulbul (Pycnonotus xantholaemus) and River Tern (Sterna hirundo), and one Endangered species – Lesser Sand Plover (Charadrius mongolus). This paper provides an overview of the current status and the IUCN status of wetland birds within the study area.

Composition and Conservation Status of Avifauna in Urban Non-protected Important Bird Area (IBA) Site of Western India

Kumbharwada wetland, an Important Bird Area (IBA) component in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India, is a crucial wintering ground for migratory birds. Long-term monitoring of the avian community over a period of long time-frame is an excellent way to examine the health of this IBA site and thus provide an important ground to foster the conservation of birds in the region and management of this wetland. Given this consideration, field surveys were carried out from December 2020 to May 2023, following point count method to study the avian species richness in the study area. A total of 204 bird species belonging to 20 orders and 56 families are recorded, of which 85 species are migratory and 119 are resident. Anatidae is the most species-rich avian family (16 species). Highest number of species was recorded in the month of January (165 species in 2021 and 163 species in 2022). This wetland supports 107 (52.45%) wetland-associated species and 97 (47.55%) terrestrial species of birds. Twelve species are considered as Near Threatened, four species as Vulnerable and one species (Aquila nipalensis) as Endangered in IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Four species (Sterna aurantia, Mycteria leucocephala, Phoeniconaias minor, and Threskiornis melanocephalus) with globally declining trend, are commonly seen in the study area, which shows that the wetland is a crucial habitat for bird species with high conservation priorities. Industrialization, encroachment, discharge of sewage water and chemical effluents, high-tension powerlines, stray dogs, and expansion of exotic vegetation remained the major threats to the habitat and avian community.

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

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.

Assessment of diversity, abundance, and seasonal variations of bird species in Bengaluru District, India during COVID-19 lockdown

The study investigates bird population dynamics in Bengaluru, India, post-lockdown, focusing on occurrence, seasonal abundance, species diversity, richness, dominance, and evenness. It covers 55 bird species across 52 genera, grouped into 32 families within 13 orders, with a notable peak in winter. Various indices, including Shannon Wiener, Margalef’s, Pielou’s, and Simpson’s, reveal significant seasonal differences in bird population characteristics. The Rock Pigeon Columba livia dominates, while the Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus is less prevalent. The study identifies Near Threatened species like Black-headed Ibis and Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, along with Least Concern species per the IUCN Red List. Common species include Rock Pigeon, Large-billed Crow Corvus macrorhynchos, House Crow Corvus splendens, Black Drongo Dicrurus macrocercus, Brown Shrike Lanius cristatus, Common Myna Acridotheres tristis, Jungle Myna Acridotheres fuscus, Red-whiskered Bulbul Pycnonotus jocosus, and Streak-throated Swallow Petrochelidon fluvicola. The study aims to inform improved management and conservation strategies for Bengaluru’s diverse bird species.

Diversity of wintering avifauna throughout the heterogeneous aquatic habitats of Bankura District, West Bengal, India

Birds play various crucial roles in the ecosystem including pollination, seed dispersal, and pest control. Assemblages of bird species in a particular landscape are useful predictors in various ecosystem services, this is evident from studies of forest bird assemblages, aquatic bodies and agro ecosystems. For developing conservation strategies, information on bird species assemblages in a particular geographical area is important. Diversity in aquatic ecosystem support a diversity of water bird species. In the present study, around 45 bird species were recorded in 21 aquatic bodies in Bankura, West Bengal, India, in which two species, namely, Leptoptilos javanicus and Aythya ferina declared ‘Vulnerable’ and three species such as Mareca falcata, Threskiornis melanocephalus, and Limosa limosa considered as ‘Near Threatened’ according to the IUCN Red list. Dendrocygna javanica and Nettapus coromandelianus were found to be the most abundant. In those 21 study areas, site6 has the highest species richness and site2 has the lowest. The dominance index was highest for site2 and lowest for site6. Pielou’s index of evenness was highest for site20. The rarefaction curve showed species abundance was highest for site1. Classical cluster analysis for species abundance showsthat site20, site21, site3, site8, site4, site19, site5, site14, site12, site15, site7, site 10 site11, and site13 are closely related. This paper is aimed to generate interest among people to conserve aquatic birds and their habitats and to document baseline information for further study.

Documentation of Avian Species Composition and Assemblage in Agricultural Landscapes of Karnal, Haryana

Avian communities maintain ecological balance by eliminating pests, providing ecosystem services, and acting as biological indicators, thereby playing a pivotal role in conserving agricultural landscapes’ integrity and stability; thus from an environmental monitoring standpoint, assessment of bird aggregations in various landscapes is necessary. A three-year (2021, 2022 and 2023) bird survey was conducted to document the checklist, density, and diversity of bird species assemblage of agricultural landscapes in the Karnal district of Haryana, India, to obtain the richness of birds in different agricultural habitats. A total of 79 bird species from 36 families and 14 orders were recorded; two bird species (Alexandrine Parakeet and Black Headed Ibis) are listed as Near Threatened in the ‘IUCN’ (2010) category. Seventeen avian species with global declining population trends are present in the study area. The Passeriformes order, with 44 species, is the most diverse in the study area. In all habitats, analysis of food and feeding guilds, as well as perching activity, revealed that the insectivorous guild (29) is dominant, followed by Omnivore (25), Carnivore (11), Granivore (7), Frugivore (5), and Nectarivore (2). The results of this study indicate that, in order to enhance the quality of bird habitat in agricultural landscapes, biodiversity friendly farming practices should be adopted.

Impact of red-neck pattern on pairing in Black-headed ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus

Impact of red-neck pattern on pairing in Black-headed ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus

Structure and Composition of Bird Assemblage in Keshopur Wetland of Punjab, India

Survey on avian diversity at Keshopur wetland, district Gurdaspur, Punjab, India revealed the presence of 121 species of birds belonging to 19 orders and 47 families. The maximum number (38) of species in the area belonged to order Passeriformes. 27 winter migratory, 3 summer migratory and 91 resident species of birds were observed. One vulnerable (Aythya ferina) and six near threatened species were observed (Aythya nyroca, Anhinga melanogaster, Mycteria leucocephala, Sterna aurantia, Psittacula eupatria, Threskiornis melanocephalus) as per IUCN red list. A particular pattern of arrival and departure of migratory birds was observed. The winter migrants started to appear in October when the temperature started decreasing. The abundance of birds varied significantly during different seasons. Major variation was found in abundance of few species at three different sites of the same wetland. This study revealed that Keshopur Chhamb Community Reserve acts as a refuge site for many waterbirds including wader, waterfowl and many migratory and threatened species.

Importance of conserving a critical wintering ground for shorebirds in the Valinokkam Lagoon—a first study of the avifaunal distribution of the southeastern coast of India

Any new economic activity in a virgin area brings landscape changes, making it essential to document baseline biodiversity areas to understand the impacts on habitats. Avifaunal inventories are critical for previously undocumented areas, especially in a wintering site for shorebirds in the Central Asian Flyway, to formulate site- and species-specific conservation management tools. We present an annotated checklist of avifauna from the Valinokkam Lagoon in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. We recorded the first baseline avifaunal data for 154 species belonging to 16 orders and 46 families from August 2016 to February 2023. Order-wise, Charadriiformes dominated the study site with 47 species; followed by Passeriformes with 39 species and Pelecaniformes with 20 species. Winter visitors constituted 37.6 % (58 species) and one Passage Migrant Rosy Starling Pastor roseus. The relative abundance indicated that 94 species were C (common), 41 species were UC (uncommon), and 19 species were Ra (rare). Eleven Near Threatened (NT) species: Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, Spot-billed Pelican Pelecanus philippensis, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica, Great Stone-curlew Esacus recurvirostris, Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata, Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea, Red-necked Stint Calidris ruficollis and Red Knot Calidris canutus, one Endangered (EN) species Great Knot Calidris tenuirostris, and one unassessed Hanuman Plover Charadrius seebohmi according to the IUCN Red List category. This baseline data highlights the importance of Valinokkam Lagoon as an important wintering site in the Central Asian Flyway on the southeast coast of India for migratory shorebirds and the need for more conservation priorities for regional endemic birds like Hanuman Plover.
 

Documentation of Avian Species Composition and Assemblage in Agricultural Landscapes of Sirsa, Haryana

Avian communities maintain ecological balance by eliminating pests, providing ecosystem services, and acting as biological indicators, thereby playing a pivotal role in conserving agricultural landscapes’ integrity and stability; thus from an environmental monitoring standpoint, assessment of bird aggregations in various landscapes is necessary. A two-year bird survey was conducted from May 2020 and 2021 to October 2020 to 2021 to document the checklist, density, and diversity of bird species assemblage of agricultural landscapes in the Sirsa district of Haryana, India, to obtain the richness of birds in two different agricultural habitats. A total of 87 bird species from 39 families and 16 orders were recorded; four bird species (Alexandrine Parakeet, Asian Woollyneck, Black-Headed Ibis, and Painted Stork) are listed as Near Threatened in the ‘IUCN’ (2010) category. Surprisingly, 13 species with global declining population trends are rare in the study area. The Passeriformes order, with 44 species, is the most diverse in the study area. In all habitats, analysis of food and feeding guilds, as well as perching activity, revealed that the insectivorous guild (32) is dominant, followed by Omnivore (29), Carnivore (13), Granivore (7), Frugivore (5), and Nectarivore (2). The findings from this study suggest that biodiversity-friendly agricultural practices should be implemented to improve bird habitat quality in agricultural landscapes.

Bird diversity of in and around Melamadai Lake Madurai city, Tamil Nadu state, India; A preliminary study

Fresh water Lakes are suitable habitat for birds along with food and water. In the present study an attempt has been made to assess the diversity of avian fauna in Melamadai Lake in Madurai district, Tamilnadu state. The duration of study period in January 2021 to December 2021. Eighty-four species of birds were observed, belonging to 41 families, 18 order in Melamadai lake. In this study recorded in Least concern (LC) 79 species and Near Threatened (NT)Five species. The five Near Threatened species - Oriental Darter (Anhinga melanogaster ), Pied Cuckoo-dove(Reinwardtoena browni ), Spot-billed Pelican (Pelecanus philippensis), Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus) and Painted Stork-(Mycteria leucocephala)- are protected under Schedule IV of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The diversity of avifauna is taken for identifying the importance of biodiversity for Madurai which is among the top ten tourism sites of world. The role of urban areas in functions such as provision of ecosystem services will largely be determined by patterns of biodiversity within that area.

Diversity and abundance of aquatic birds in Koonthankulam village pond, Tamil Nadu, India

The diversity of birds in Koonthankulam pond, located in Koonthankulam village (8.495N, 77.755E), Tirunelveli district, southern Tamil Nadu, was studied. A total of 90 species belonging to 21 orders, 42 families, and 73 genera were recorded. The study recorded seasonal migrants such as Black Ibis, Oriental White Ibis, Bar-headed Goose & Spoonbill and indigenous species including the Pond Heron, Cattle Egret, White-breasted Kingfisher, Red-wattled Lapwing, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Purple-rumped Sunbird, Hoopoe, and Indian Robin. The primary data were analyzed by principal component analysis, cluster, and analysis of variance. Analysis of variance showed that the Menhinick index is statistically significant P <0.05. A structural equation model was applied to analyze the physico-chemical parameters of water samples collected from the sampling site. Analysis of experimental data through the structural equation model indicates temperature and dissolved oxygen may indirectly affect bird diversity.

An annotated checklist of the avifauna of Karangadu mangrove forest, Ramanathapuram, Tamil Nadu, with notes on the site’s importance for waterbird conservation

Avifaunal inventories are crucial to the formulation of conservation and management strategies for habitats and species. An annotated checklist of the birds of the Karangadu eco-tourism area located in the Palk Bay in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, was prepared. We listed a total of 107 species belonging to 18 orders and 40 families. Orders Charadriiformes, Suliformes, and Pelecaniformes dominated the habitat. Among the families, Scolopacidae (10 species) was dominant, followed by Ardeidae (9), and Laridae (8). In addition, the study also documented three globally ‘Near Threatened’ species: Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, and Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus. The observed frequency of the species was: 57% (61 spp.) common, 32.7% (35 spp.) uncommon, and 10.3% (11 spp.) rare. Categorization based on the residential status of birds revealed that 31% (33 spp.) were winter visitors, and one was a passage migrant (Rosy Starling Pastor roseus). These baseline data highlight the importance of Karangadu as an important site on the southeastern coast of India for migratory shorebird conservation priorities.

Avian Community Composition in and around Mandothi Wetlands, Haryana, India

Comprising an area of approximately 1000 acres, Mandothi wetlands are located in Bahadurgarh tehsil of Jhajjar district of Haryana, India and provide an important wintering ground for migratory birds. From December 2021 to June 2022, fortnightly surveys were made to document the avian community composition of the study area in Mandothi wetlands using point-count and line-transect methods. A total of 124 species belonging to 90 genera, 38 families, and 15 orders were recorded. Passeriformes was the most represented avian order, with 38 species and 15 families. Feeding guild analysis revealed that carnivore was the most dominant feeding guild in the study area. Of the recorded 124 avian species, 73 species were residents, 44 species were winter migrants and 7 species were summer migrants. As per the IUCN Red List 8 species were classified as Near Threatened (Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca, Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa, Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus, Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus, Black-headed Ibis Threskiornis melanocephalus, Darter Anhinga melanogaster) and 2 species were classified as Vulnerable (Sarus Crane Antigone antigone and River Tern Sterna aurantia). In addition to the present survey, 17 species were also reported from secondary sources, resulting in a checklist of 141 bird species. The occurrence of migratory and species of global conservation priority documents the importance of this wetland as a potential habitat for avifauna in Haryana.

Impact of abnormal morphology of breeding in oriental white Ibis, Threskiornis melanocephalus

Oriental White Ibis, also known as Indian White Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), belongs to family Threskiornithidae. It is a large, white-water bird with a prominent bare black head and neck, and a long, down- curved black bill. The body of this species is elongated but robust. The tail of the black-headed ibis bears grey ornamental feathers. Both the male and female black-headed ibis are similar in size and appearance. We observed many leucistic Black-headed Ibis during breeding season. Almost partially leucistic individuals (15) were solitary and perched on nesting trees but few birds (only one) form pairs with normal individuals of Black-headed Ibis at the end of breeding season. The comparison of various behaviors like nest building, courtship and mating, incubation, hatching and feeding of such abnormal and normal mophs, were studied June 2019 to October 2020, factors affecting the breeding success of the species were also analyzed. The abnormal morphology failed to form a pair like normal morphs during breeding cycle.

Community composition and status of avian diversity at Campus and Agricultural landscapes of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana)

Avian species diversity and their assemblage are responsible for maintaining the integrity and health of any ecosystem. Documentation of avian diversity in different habitats is sensitive tool for monitoring the environmental condition. The present investigation aimed to record the diversity of avian fauna at the main campus and agricultural landscapes of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana). Line transect and point count methods were used to taking observations on different species of birds. A total of 101 bird species under 17 orders 43 families and 86 genera were recorded; out of them, 78, 17, 5 and one species were resident, winter migrant, summer migrant and passage migrant, respectively. Species richness of order Passeriformes was highest, followed by Pelecaniformes and Muscicapidae, the most diverse family in the study area. Analysis of food and feeding guilds revealed that the insectivorous guild is predominant, followed by Omnivore, Carnivore, Granivore, Frugivore and Nectarivore. Out of the total observed species, 23 have declining population trends at global level, whereas three species (Alexandrine Parakeet, Asian Woollyneck, Black-headed ibis) are listed as Near Threatened and Common Pochard is vulnerable as per IUCN Red List. The species richness was significantly higher in farmland, followed by main campus and experimental orchards. Jaccard’s similarity index between habitats revealed that the main campus and farmland area has a maximum (0.73) similarity in bird communities. This emphasises the significance of these study sites as key habitats for bird species of conservation priorities.