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Agricultural ornithology plays a crucial role in managing and sustaining agroecosystems. In agriculture, birds such as insectivores and raptors serve as natural controllers of insect and rodent pests, contributing to integrated pest management strategies. In this study, a checklist of birds was compiled using data collected over three years (2019-2022) from the agricultural landscape surrounding Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University, Palampur (HPAU), India. The study area comprises varied habitats including agricultural fields, forest patches, water bodies, and tea orchards. A total of 116 avian species, spanning 17 orders and 44 families were documented. Muscicapidae emerged as the most dominant family, comprising 16 species and exhibiting the highest relative diversity index value (13.79). A comparison with previous records revealed that 40 avian species were absent, while 34 bird species were reported for the first time in the study area. These finding revealed the significant shift in avian diversity at HPAU compared to previous assessments (HPAU 2019). The observed decline in avian diversity may be attributed to rapid habitat degradation driven by large-scale shrub trimming and other development activities, particularly construction projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas (PAs) in Terai-Arc landscape are relatively poorly explored as far as bird communities are concerned. Here we report a checklist and significant records of birds recorded during opportunistic observations and systematic bird surveys in four PAs: Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary (2001-2004, 2006, 2008, and 2015); Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (2014-15); Valmiki Tiger Reserve (2014-17), and Udaipur Wildlife Sanctuary (2018). We have compiled a checklist of 424 species that includes 358 species in the Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, 306 species in the Valmiki Tiger Reserve, 236 species in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, and 128 species in Udaipur Wildlife Sanctuary. Most species belong to the Insectivore guild (190 species, 44.8%), while the nectivorous guild was the least represented (10 species, 2.35%). A total of 9% of species in the region were either globally threatened (6 Critically Endangered, 5 Endangered, and 8 Vulnerable) or Near Threatened (19 species). Sightings of species of conservation importance have been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted between June 2017 and December 2018 to assess the bird community structure, diversity, feeding guilds, and the residential status of birds in Gautam Buddha Wildlife Sanctuary (GBWS). Avian diversity and guild organization in five different habitat types were classified according to the forest type present in the landscape. The results indicated a total of 99 avifauna that belongs to 48 families, distributed in 16 orders. Among the 99 species, 77 were residents, 17 were winter visitors, four were summer visitors, and only one was a passage migrant. Based on the feeding guild evaluation, the majority were insectivorous (47%), followed by omnivorous (24%), carnivorous (14%), granivorous (8%), frugivorous (4%), insectivorous (1%), and piscivorous (1%). The scrubland, among other forest types, represented the highest diversity value for the Shannon-Weiner diversity index (3.2), evenness was recorded highest in riverine habitat (0.63), whereas utmost Simpson's dominance (0.98) and Fisher's index value (41) were in human settlement. These findings of our study illustrate the outstanding potential of GBWS as an important protected site for mixed bird diversity and specific feeding guilds, precisely in terms of the insectivorous and omnivorous communities. Hence, the study outcomes set a notable landmark for understanding birds and their habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bharathapuzha River is the second largest, west-flowing river in Kerala, Western Ghats. This river is exposed to high levels of anthropogenic and natural pressures. This study attempts to understand the diversity and distribution of birds in this river basin. The observations were made from October 2017 to July 2019 in 70*1 km2 grids distributed in three strata (i.e., upper, middle, and lower reaches). A total of 262 bird species were recorded from the river basin. The diversity and richness of birds were found high in the upper reaches of the river and the species abundance was found more in the lower reaches. Due to the high turnover of migratory species, the rank abundance model for upper and lower reaches showed a high degree of dominance while middle reaches showed a relatively even distribution of abundances. Deforestation, sand mining, and water pollution were found to be the major threats in the river basin. Hence the results show the importance of the protection and rejuvenation of the ecosystems associated with the river for the conservation of avian diversity in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the sighting of the Western Reef-Heron, a medium-sized heron, in Jammu & Kashmir, India. This sighting expands the bird diversity in the region and provides insights into the bird population and ecological dynamics. Wular Lake, where the heron was spotted, is one of Asia's largest wetlands and serves as an important water source for various activities. The sighting of the Western Reef-Heron is significant as it is the first record of this bird species in Jammu & Kashmir, adding to the growing list of rare bird sightings in the area. [Extracted from the article]

Birds play a vital role in ecosystems. Studying avifaunal diversity therefore has a noteworthy role in indicating nature's ecological balance in the environment. A total of 749 bird species have so far been recorded in Bhutan. We present a comprehensive checklist of birds of Tsirang, District which largely lies outside Bhutan's protected area system. The data was collected through opportunistic encounters and with regular field visits to a range of locations in different seasons. One-fourth of the country's total avifauna and a new species recorded for Bhutan, The Plum-headed Parakeet Psittacula cyanocephala was recorded as part of this study. In all, 285 avian species belonging to 18 orders and 65 families including one globally 'Critically Endangered', three 'Vulnerable', and a 'Near Threatened' species were recorded during the survey. The high species richness of birds in the study area reveals that it includes good habitats for birds in Bhutan. Similar studies are suggested in other areas contiguous to the protected areas in Bhutan including the current study area. This should aid in understanding of the factors driving the differences in bird diversity within and outside the protected areas so as to facilitate informed conservation actions in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The avian diversity of Chemmattamvayal Wetlands and adjacent areas, in Kasaragod District, Kerala State, was recorded from December 2014 to March 2018. The methodology followed was mainly incidental observations using binoculars. Findings presented here are also based on the data collected from eBird, a citizen science based online plaftorm. A total of 145 bird species, belonging to 17 orders and 50 families were recorded during the study. Among them, 42 species were winter migrants and 97 were seen throughout the year. The highest number of birds were recorded during the month of January and the lowest in June. The present work gains importance as a literature on the avian fauna of the district. White-throated Kingfisher Halcyon smyrnensis, Indian Pond Heron Ardeola grayii, and Spotted Dove Spilopelia chinensis were recorded highest in terms of relative abundance. The importance of these wetlands and adjacent areas as the stepping stone for trans-continental migrants is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habitat is the key factor of biodiversity conservation. In Vindhyan mountain range of India, there are many perennial and seasonal rivers which create deep gorges in their course of flow. Two Vindhyan gorges-Tahla and Chainpuriya-were studied to know their potential as bird habitat from July 2016 to June 2018 using line transect method during three season survey basis. The Tahla gorge had 74 bird species of 35 families (67 resident and 7 migratory). The Chainpuriya gorge had 60 bird species belonged to 31 families (53 resident and 7 migratory). Highest bird diversity (HT = 3.55, HCh = 3.29) and richness (dT = 9.63, dCh = 8.28) was found in summer and the least diversity (HT = 3.40, HCh = 3.19) and richness (dT = 7.95, dCh = 7.49) was found in monsoon. Birds of family Muscicapidae had highest relative diversity (T = 9.45, Ch = 13.33) in both the gorges. Insectivorous guild was most abundant followed by omnivorous, carnivorous, granivorous, frugivorous, and nectarivorous guilds. Wide range of habitats, variety of food, life resources, and undisturbed self-sustained ecosystem were important key factors for the rich diversity of birds in the gorges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subsidence and upliftment of landmass were encountered in Andaman & Nicobar Islands due to the 2004 tsunami. The subsided landmass at the coastal front was permanently waterlogged ensuring a conducive new habitat for wetland birds. Pre- and post-tsunami Landsat satellite data products were used to demarcate the permanently waterlogged areas. A total of 63 bird species belonging to nine families comprising of five orders were identified and documented through direct observation technique in six stations of the 2004 posttsunami-created wetlands in South Andaman. Order Charadriiformes and Anseriformes recorded the highest (47.62%) and least (4.76%) taxonomic composition of wetland birds, respectively. Scolopacidae family recorded the highest (56.67%) species composition. Among the six stations, the highest diversity of birds was observed in Sippighat and Ograbraj stations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Protected areas are considered important for biodiversity conservation, however, studies have shown that habitats outside protected areas can also support high diversity and are important for biodiversity conservation. In this context, we compared the bird diversity between protected (Rani Taal in Shuklaphanta National Park) and non-protected (Sati Karnali Taal) wetlands in western Nepal. Bird surveys were conducted from February to August 2019, using open width point count method in 100 m intervals along transects. A total of 122 species belonging to 18 orders and 44 families were recorded from the protected wetland, and 107 species belonging to 16 orders and 41 families from the non-protected wetland area. Insectivores had high abundance in both wetlands (43% and 47% in protected and non-protected wetlands, respectively). Forest-dependent birds were more abundant in protected wetland compared to non-protected wetland. Our study showed that both protected and non-protected wetlands along with agricultural landscapes, support a richness of birds. Hence priority should be given to both wetlands for the conservation of birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthropogenic threats to wetland ecosystems, including discharge of industrial effluents, municipal sewerage, land reclamation, erosion and deforestation, have contributed to the rapid declines in populations of many bird species. The present study aimed to document avian diversity, including birds on the IUCN Red List, at Nangal Wetland, Punjab from February 2013 to January 2015. A total of 155 species belonging to 48 families (resident and migratory) under 17 orders were recorded, of which 13 come under various IUCN Red List categories: one 'Endangered'--Egyptian Vulture Neophron percnopterus; five 'Vulnerable'--Common Pochard Aythya ferina, Greater-Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga, Sarus Crane Grus antigone, Lesser White-Fronted Goose Anser erythropus, and Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus; and seven 'Near Threatened'--Ferruginous Duck Aythya nyroca, River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelii, Indian River Tern Sterna aurantia, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Blossom-headed Parakeet Psittacula roseata, and Alexandrine Parakeet Psittacula eupatria. The Shannon-Weaver index of diversity was highest during winter (H'= 1.9) followed by autumn (H'= 1.9) then spring (H'= 1.5), and was lowest during summer (H'= 1.4). Though this wetland is highly productive and provides homes to many threatened species, untreated industrial effluents from adjoining areas sometimes create problems. The discharge of pollutants should be stopped through strict enforcement of environmental laws and policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birds are ecological indicators of ecosystem health. Baseline information on bird diversity are, therefore, important for ecological monitoring. Such information is, however, sorely lacking for many areas outside the protected areas. Here, we explore the avian diversity and present a comprehensive checklist for the non-protected regions of Trashiyangtse District in northeastern Bhutan. We also categorise the bird species by their residency pattern, feeding guilds, abundance, and IUCN Red List status. We conducted an avifauna exploration for a period of four years from 2017 to 2020, mostly through opportunistic encounters coinciding with regular field visits. We recorded a total of 273 bird species belonging to 173 genera, 69 families and 19 orders. Passeriformes was the most dominant order with 41 families and 174 species and Muscicapidae was the most dominant family with 12 genera and 32 species. Most birds were altitudinal migrants (39%), insectivorous (45%), and occasional (44%) in terms of residency pattern, feeding guild, and abundance, respectively. Only one species (Ardea insignis) was listed as Critically Endangered and one (Haliaeetus leucoryphus) as Endangered. Our study identified the nonprotected regions of Trashiyangtse District as an important bird diversity area in Bhutan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There exists limited information on biodiversity including avifaunal diversity and habitat condition in community forests (CF) of Nepal; thus we aimed to fulfull such gaps in Tibrekot CF of Kaski district. We used the point count method for assessing bird diversity and laid out a circular plot size of radius 5-m within 15-m distance from each point count station for recording the biophysical habitat characteristics. Bird species’ diversity, richness and evenness were calculated using popular indexes and General Linear Model (GLM) was used to test the respective effect of various biophysical factors associated with the richness of bird species. In total, 166 (summer 122, winter 125) bird species were recorded in 46 sample plots. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index was calculated as 3.99 and 4.09, Margalef’s richness index as 16.84 and 17.53 and Pielou’s evenness index as 0.83 and 0.84 for summer and winter, respectively. The influencing factors for richness of bird species were season (χ21, 90= 112.21; P= 0.016) with higher richness in the summer season and low vegetation cover (χ21, 89= 113.88; P= 0.0064) with higher richness in lower percentage cover. Thus, community managed forest should be protected as it has a significant role in increasing bird diversity, which has potential for attracting avifaunal tourism for the benefit of the local communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birds have a significant role in maintaining the ecological balance of agro-ecosystems. But yet there is no documentation related to bird diversity in the agricultural landscapes of eastern Uttar Pradesh. This study was conducted from March 2019 to February 2020 using fixed radius point count method in Ayodhya district of eastern Uttar Pradesh. A total of 139 bird species belonging to 107 genera, 49 families and 15 orders were recorded from the study area. Passeriformes was the most dominant order with 28 families and 76 species. Accipitridae and Muscicapidae were the most diverse families with 11 species each and RDi value of 7.91. Among the recorded bird species, 105 species (76%) were resident, 29 species (21%) were winter visitors and only 5 species (4%) were summer visitors. According to the feeding guilds, omnivores (46 species, 33%) were highly represented, followed by insectivores (31%), carnivores (25%), granivores (6%), frugivores (4%) and nectarivores (1%). The Sohawal tehsil was found to have the highest species richness and a Shannon-Weiner diversity index (133, 4.30). Aquila nipalensis and Neophron percnopterus were the two 'Endangered' species, Antigone antigone and Clanga hastata were the two 'Vulnerable' species and Ciconia episcopus, Gyps himalayensis, Mycteria leucocephala and Psittacula eupatria were the four 'Near Threatened' species found in this region. In addition to this, the region also supported 31 species (22%) whose global population trend is decreasing. This study provides a baseline data on the bird diversity present in agricultural landscapes of this region. Based on which further studies should be designed to understand the factors influencing the diversity of birds in these agricultural landscapes which are continuously subjected to anthropogenic pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PunatsangChhu in Wangduephodrang 27.486°N 89.899°E (1,273m) is one of the largest rivers and an important zone in Bhutan for resident and migrant water birds. It is the expanse where the diverse birds are seen on a stretch between 27.462°N 89.901°E and 27.579°N 89.867°E (Tobgay 2017). Large numbers of winter migratory water birds in Bhutan have been found in this location (Spierenburg 2005). Common Goldeneye Bucephala clangula was first sighted on Saturday, 5th of January, 2019 along PunatsangChhu 27.512657’N 89.887610’E at the elevation of 1142meter above sea level in the morning but couldn’t capture photo and more over mistreated it to be some other common water birds. However, until on 8th of January, 2019, it was a success to have photographed while it was foraging alone at the sand extraction sites at around 12:30 hours in the evening. The duck was observed diving simultaneously under water foraging at the time of sighting. It was then photographed with the help of DSLR camera and kit lens 55–300 mm until it flew away to other side of the river.

The present study was carried out to investigate the importance of habitat quality for the diversity, distribution, and abundance of avifauna in Daroji Sloth Bear Sanctuary, Ballari District from February 2015 to January 2016. A total number of 189 species of birds, belonging to 62 families and 18 orders were recorded during the survey. A family-wise analysis showed that the families Accipitridae (12 species), followed by Muscicapidae (11 species), Ardeidae & Alaudidae (8 species each), and Cuculidae (7 species) dominated the avifauna of the region. The residential status of birds revealed that 74% (140 species) were resident, 23% (44 species) were winter, 2% (3 species) were summer and 1% (2 species) was passage migrant’s species. The study resulted in the recording of fives globally Near Threatened category, viz, Painted Stork, Black-headed Ibis, Oriental Darter, River Tern, and Pallid Harrier; and two Vulnerable species, viz, Yellow-throated Bulbul and Woolly-necked Stork. The feeding guild analysis revealed that the insectivorous guild has the most number of recorded avian species (33%, 63 species), followed by carnivorous (31%, 58 species) and least by nectarivorous (1%, 2 species). This study provides baseline data for monitoring the avifauna in the sanctuary and demonstrates the importance of the area in bird conservation. The study also highlights the negative impact of anthropogenic activities as the main cause for the loss of diversity of both birds and their habitat and the urgent need to conserve this biodiversity-rich area with long-term monitoring programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice Oryza sativa ecosystems provide foraging and nesting habitat for a variety of birds. Myanmar is a major rice-producing nation and yet bird use of rice ecosystems remains largely unstudied. We present the results of a case study of avian species richness in a traditional rice ecosystem at Limpha Village in upper Myanmar. The rice field at Limpha occupies 17.5 ha where a single crop is produced each year without chemical inputs (fertilizer and pesticides). Village lands are contiguous with the buffer zone of Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary. We conducted bird surveys of the rice field during dry and wet seasons (2013–20) and documented the occurrence of 85 species (exclusive of Buttonquail these included 58 resident species, 20 migratory species, six species with both resident and migratory populations in upper Myanmar), including 10 species of conservation concern. Species richness was greatest during the dry season when an influx of Palearctic migrants was present. We ranked 52 species as Common, 23 as Uncommon, and 10 as Rare. Most birds used the rice field as foraging rather than breeding habitat. Insectivore was the most common feeding guild (43 species), followed by Omnivore (22 species), Carnivore (12 species), Granivore (6 species), Frugivore (1 species), and Nectarivore (1 species) guilds. We observed eight species associated with domestic Water Buffalo Bubalus bubalis and 15 species foraging at active fires or in burned areas in the rice field. Piles of rice straw are important foraging sites for several species. Low intensity agricultural practices, habitat heterogeneity, and proximity to the nearby swamp, forest, & Chindwin River are probably responsible for the relatively high avian species richness at Limpha. Future agricultural intensification could negatively impact avian species richness in the Limpha rice field. Our findings suggest that traditional rice agriculture is compatible with conservation objectives in the buffer zone of Htamanthi Wildlife Sanctuary. Our study, however, requires replication before generalizations can be made concerning the value of traditional rice ecosystems to avian conservation in Myanmar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Savitribai Phule Pune University is known for its biodiversity in Pune. In the present study, we have analyzed changes which have occurred on the campus and surrounding area over the last 40 years. Of the 90 bird species reported in the campus and Khadki pond in 1976, we failed to notice 34 species in 2018. A major reason for the decline in bird diversity could be changes in the campus habitat from low scrub jungle, fallow lands and grassland to buildings, roads, and exotic plantations. Increase in human settlement surrounding the campus may also be a contributing factor. Replacing exotic plants by indigenous plant species and control of land use can prevent further loss of biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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In Malaysia, the current status of birds inhabiting agarwood Aquilaria malaccensis plantations has not been specifically studied, and little research has been conducted to investigate birds in other agricultural areas (e.g., rubber, acacia, and oil palm plantations) and disturbed areas. This study was conducted to assess bird species richness and relative abundance, as well as feeding guilds, in two agarwood plantation sites: Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris in Tanjong Malim (UPSI), and Slim River (SR). The presence of birds was recorded using a combination of techniques (mist-nets and point count), while various sources were used to compile feeding information. This study recorded 364 birds from 36 species in 24 families. Shannon diversity index (H') values for the UPSI and SR sites were 2.896 and 2.492 respectively, indicating high bird diversity. The Bray-Curtis index was 0.29, indicating these sites share few species. Insectivorous and omnivorous birds were dominant in UPSI (31%), and omnivores at SR (32%). The commonest insect order at both sites was Orthoptera (UPSI 48%, SR 25%). While agarwood plantations are relatively homogeneous, they provide a variety of food sources and shelter for a wide range of birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored bird diversity, seasonal variation, and associated factors along an elevational gradient in an important biodiversity area (IBA) of central Nepal: the Kaligandaki River basin of Annapurna Conservation Area. The field survey was carried out in 2019 over two seasons, winter (January and February) and summer (May and June) using the point count method. A total of 90 sampling plots were set up from elevations of 800m (Beni) to 3,800m (Muktinath). Data for variables including the number of fruiting trees (indicator of resource availability) and distance to the road (indicator of disturbance) were collected, and their influence on avian diversity were assessed. The results revealed a diverse assemblage of avian fauna in the study area with consistent species richness over the two seasons. A decline in species richness and diversity with increasing elevation was observed. Of the different habitat types within the study area, forest and shrubland habitats showed the strongest association with bird species distribution and richness. We emphasize the need for long-term monitoring programs with standardized sampling approaches to better understand the avifauna in the central Himalaya. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to report a few lesser known species from Durgapur ecoregion, West Bengal, India. In spite of the anthropogenic pressure, Durgapur supports a high avian diversity. So far, 257 avian species belonging to 59 families were recorded with a citizen science effort during a period of more than five years (2013-present). Out of these, five species discussed here, are either not recorded previously or have few records: Hume's Lark and Graceful Prinia were recorded from riverine habitat; and Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo, White-rumped Shama, and Indian Blue-Robin were recorded from woodland habitat. More extensive exploration of this region with involvement of citizen scientists in this study will enrich our knowledge about bird diversity, their migration and distribution pattern in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The list of birds of Sindhudurg coastal district was compiled based on primary and secondary information. All observations were made along the Sindhudurg coast, i.e., from Terekhol to Vijaydurg. Wetland birds were recorded during sampling while terrestrial birds were recorded opportunistically. Besides, we also collated bird occurrence records from published literature (including grey literature and online resources) to prepare a comprehensive list of birds for Sindhudurg coast. During our study, we recorded 283 species, and 24 more species were compiled from secondary sources. Altogether, 307 species belonging to 78 families and 22 orders were recorded from the Sindhudurg coast. Order Passeriformes was dominant with 111 species. Among the 307 species, four species are endemic to the Western Ghats. Three species of vultures had been reported earlier but two were not encountered in recent years. Great Knot (EN), Woolly-necked Stork (VU) and 14 other species (NT) fall under various threat categories of IUCN. Species richness was higher in Vengurla (256) followed by Malvan (247) and Devgad talukas. Construction of homestays, unregulated tourism in coastal areas, and conversion of natural habitats to meet increasing tourism are the major threats to the coastal avifauna of the district. A high species richness of birds in Sindhudurg coast is attributed to the availability of a wide array of habitats (coastal to woodlands with different degrees of anthropogenic disturbances). Considering the high species richness of birds and livelihood dependency of humans on the coastal zones, a few estuaries namely Mochemad, Karli and Mitbav estuaries may be recognized as community/ conservation reserve to manage the ecosystem sustainably for long-term conservation of these estuaries and sub-habitats therein. Also, those sites can be perceived as Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas of IBCN as they fulfill the IBA criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We surveyed water birds in Haripura-Baur Reservoir using total count method between 2013 and 2015. A total of 65 species were recorded representing eight orders and 14 families. Numerically Anatidae was the dominant family followed by Ardeidae and Scolopacidae. Common Coot Fulica atra, Red-crested Pochard Netta rufina, Common Pochard Aythya ferina, Gadwall Anas strepera, and Tufted Pochard Aythya fuligula were dominant species in the reservoir. The Shannon diversity of water birds was more or less consistent over the years and ranged between 2.56 (2013-14) and 2.23 (2015-16). The reservoir supports water birds having declining population trends globally (41% of species), including three Vulnerable (Asian Woollyneck Ciconia episcopus, Lesser Adjutant Leptoptilos javanicus, and Sarus Crane Grus antigone and four Near Threatened species (Oriental Darter Anhinga melanogaster, Painted Stork Mycteria leucocephala, Black-necked Stork Ephippiorhynchus asiaticus, and River Lapwing Vanellus duvaucelii). Bird species belong to four feeding guilds with the domination of the carnivore group. The current information is expected to serve as preliminary database of water birds for further research and monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Sheka Zone in southwestern Ethiopia is covered by some of the largest remaining forests in the Eastern Afromontane biodiversity hotspot. Owing to the rich biodiversity and a high degree of endemism, it was declared as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 2012 and is considered a Key Biodiversity Area. Detailed knowledge on species diversity and distribution in the reserve is, however, severely limited. From February to April 2016, an assessment of the bird diversity and distribution in the reserve was made for the first time through point count transects, camera-trap recordings and opportunistic observations. In total, 244 bird species were identified, of which 19% was only found within the reserve's designated protected zones. Our study indicates a remarkable bird species richness across the different habitats in Sheka Forest Biosphere Reserve and can be used as a baseline for future monitoring studies and conservation planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Factors affecting diversity and distribution of globally threatened birds were studied by dividing Chitwan National Park (CNP) into five study blocks consisting of 17 birding routes. CNP provides major habitats for the feeding and breeding of a large number of migratory birds from many parts of the globe and also plays a vital role in the conservation of threatened species. We recorded a total of 437 individuals of globally threatened birds belonging to 19 species of nine families and eight orders. There was considerable variation (F=2.94, df=44.43, p=0.05) in species diversity of threatened birds in different study blocks: the highest diversity was in Block E (Pithauli, Amaltari, and Narayani Island area; H=2.108), followed by Block C (Kasara to Sukibhar area; H=2.047), Block B (Barandabhar Corridor Forest; H=2.033), Block A (Khagendra Malli, Kathar, Sauraha to Old Padampur; H=1.744), and Block D with the least diversity (Madi area; H=1.69). The higher dominance index was found in blocks A (D=0.2407) and D (0.2361) compared to other blocks. The lower diversity of threatened birds was reported in those blocks (A & D) located nearer to human settlements that experienced higher disturbance. Presence of livestock and people caused significantly negative effects on species richness and abundance of threatened birds, mainly in Block A. Distance from roads and villages also had a negative effect on the diversity and abundance of most of the threatened birds. This study suggests that human disturbance caused a significantly negative impact on the presence, distribution, diversity, and abundance of threatened birds in CNP and adjoining areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey on birds was conducted at St. Coombs Tea Estate, Talawakelle, Sri Lanka with the objective of assessing the avifaunal diversity of a given tea plantation ecosystem. Bird populations were sampled in man-made habitats such as home garden, wetland, tea plantation, Eucalyptus plantation and small scale reservoir. Hundred-and-twenty counts were made for each habitat and in addition, activities of birds, feeding habits and food recourses were also observed. A total of 87 species, including 11 endemic and 11 migrant species of birds, was recorded, which included one globally threatened species, Kashmir Flycatcher Ficedula subrubra and 16 nationally threatened species. A majority of the bird species were observed in home gardens (75%), followed by reservoirs (57%), wetlands (48%), tea plantations (43%) and in Eucalyptus plantations (23%). Home gardens support bird diversity while the species richness of endemic bird species increases thereby enabling these findings to be used as guidelines in long term conservational practices. Several conservation measures such as increasing plant diversity, introduction of shade trees and prevention of fire are recommended to conserve and enhance avifaunal diversity in tea plantations.

The present report puts forth a systematic checklist of bird species observed at Amboli Ghat in Maharashtra from 2009 to 2012, along with information on their status. A total of 208 species were recorded, which is around 15% of bird species of the Indian subcontinent. A family-wise analysis showed that the families Accipitridae and Muscicapidae (14 species each) followed by Ardeidae dominated the avifauna of the region. The study also revealed that the area consisted of 11 species of birds that are classified under Near Threatened category and two under Vulnerable category of IUCN. This study highlights the urgent need to conserve the biodiversity-rich area of Amboli Ghat with long-term plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the species richness of birds along the elevation gradient of the Sutlej River basin in Himachal Pradesh in the western Himalaya of India. Birds were sampled at 318 sites categorized into 16 elevation bands ranging from 498 to 3700 m between June 2012 and April 2013. A total of 203 bird species were recorded. Species richness showed a monotonic decline with increasing elevation, with 27% of species recorded within a narrow elevation range. We tested the roles of explanatory variables such as environment (temperature, precipitation, area, & Mid-domain Effect (MDE) richness) and habitat (Normalized Differential Vegetation Index (NDVI): July, November & March) on the observed distribution pattern. The observed species richness pattern was strongly correlated with temperature, while three other variables--precipitation, area, and MDE richness-contributed negligibly to the observed pattern. The present study indicates that climatic conditions and vegetation are the major contributors for determining species richness along the Sutlej River basin. Thus, a customized approach is crucial for conservation of species in the elevation range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study to find out the bird diversity at the Indian Institute of Forest Management (IIFM), Bhopal, was carried out over a period of nine months from July 2012 to March 2013. IIFM is located on a hill facing Bhadbhada barrage in Bhopal. Physiographically the area is classified as Vindhayan Hills. A total of 106 bird species belonging to 52 families were recorded during the study covering an area of about 93 hectares. The study area was divided into three major habitat types: open scrub, dry deciduous, and urbanized. Bird species were classified into eight feeding guilds: carnivore, ground insectivore, sallying insectivore, canopy and bark insectivore, nectar insectivore, general insectivore, frugivore and water birds. Of the total 106 species observed, 27 species were recorded as winter visitors. Density analysis was done using DISTANCE software and density was found out to be 32.7 birds per hectare. Rank abundance curve was used for assessing species composition in different habitats and during different seasons. In terms of both richness and evenness, open scrub scored the highest rank (72 species, and most even distribution of species). Higher species richness with lower species evenness was recorded during winter season for all the habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey on birds was conducted at St. Coombs Tea Estate, Talawakelle, Sri Lanka with the objective of assessing the avifaunal diversity of a given tea plantation ecosystem. Bird populations were sampled in man-made habitats such as home garden, wetland, tea plantation, Eucalyptus plantation and small scale reservoir. Hundred-and-twenty counts were made for each habitat and in addition, activities of birds, feeding habits and food recourses were also observed. A total of 87 species, including 11 endemic and 11 migrant species of birds, was recorded, which included one globally threatened species, Kashmir Flycatcher Ficedula subrubra and 16 nationally threatened species. A majority of the bird species were observed in home gardens (75%), followed by reservoirs (57%), wetlands (48%), tea plantations (43%) and in Eucalyptus plantations (23%). Home gardens support bird diversity while the species richness of endemic bird species increases thereby enabling these findings to be used as guidelines in long term conservational practices. Several conservation measures such as increasing plant diversity, introduction of shade trees and prevention of fire are recommended to conserve and enhance avifaunal diversity in tea plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out in three different habitat types within the Mihintale Sanctuary, namely aquatic, undisturbed forest and disturbed habitat from November 2008 to May 2009. The main objective of the study was to determine the species diversity and identify the threats to the birds. Line transect, point counts and opportunistic survey methods were conducted daily both in the morning and evenings. A total of 130 species of birds belonging to 47 families including 111 breeding residents, 19 winter visitors, four endemic species and four species that are being proposed as endemic species were recorded, it also included 10 rare species, one very rare winter visitor, Zoothera citrina, six nationally threatened and one globally threatened species, Pelecanus philippensis. The number of bird species that were observed in the aquatic habitat, forested habitat and the disturbed habitat were 93,40 and 76 respectively. The results] indicate that diversity of birds was significantly higher (p<0.05) in the aquatic habitat. It was revealed that the aquatic habitat provides more suitable niches and food resources for a wide variety of birds. Therefore, species diversity near aquatic habitat was higher compared to that of the forest. Fragmentation of forest into small patches, hunting birds for food and presence of natural predators are the major threats to the avifauna in the sanctuary. Thus, strategies should be developed to conserve the avifaunal diversity in the forest patches. The sanctuary supports different types of native bird species of Sri Lanka and is identified as one of the IBAs in Sri Lanka, it therefore plays an important role in the conservation of birds in Sri Lanka. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed at preparing an inventory of the avifauna and to document the species composition of birds during winter in different habitat types of Rosekandy Tea Estate of Cachar District of Assam. Four habitat types, viz., tea plantation, ecotone zone, secondary growth forest and water bodies were selected within the tea estate and surveyed from mid-December 2010 (early winter) to mid-April 2011 (late winter) covering four months of survey. A total of 88 species were recorded during the survey period with the highest number of species in ecotone zone (n=63), followed by secondary forest (n=60), tea plantation (n=48) and water bodies (n=17). The species were further categorized into different feeding and habitat guilds to study the distribution of bird species in different habitat types according to various guilds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 164 bird species belonging to 53 families were recorded in the Manjeera Wildlife Sanctuary. Of these 107 species were resident, 55 species were winter migrants and 2 species were summer migrants. The population of the each species in different habitats was estimated. Species richness was observed to be more in agriculture habitat followed by scrubland, grassland and marshy areas, whereas species diversity was observed to be more in scrubland habitat followed by agriculture lands, grasslands and marshy areas. Similarity Index analysis showed that the habitats of agriculture landscrubland are more similar whereas, habitats of scrubland-marshy area show dissimilarity in the sanctuary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the shortage of power in India, wind energy is increasingly harnessed as an alternate and renewable energy source. There is a rapid increase in the number of wind farms at suitable sites all over the country. Some of the key sites with optimal wind velocities are the plateaus on the Western Ghats - a global hotspot of biological diversity. The rocky plateaus on the Western Ghats are terrestrial habitat islands facing extreme micro-environmental conditions; however, scanty information is available on the ecology of these plateaus. We undertook a two-year study to assess the impact of wind farms on birds. We also documented the avian diversity at Bhambarwadi Plateau, northern Western Ghats, India. To the best of our knowledge this is the first such study in India. We recorded 89 avian species on the plateau, 27 of which flew in the risk area swept by the rotor blades, and hence are potentially at risk of collision. The collision index (the number of bird collisions with wind turbines over a period of one year assuming that the birds do not take any avoidance measure) for these species were estimated. We also identified species at risk from collision with transformers and wind-masts, and at risk from electrocution. Reduction in avian activity in the study area was evident with progress of wind farm erection. Despite the small footprint of an individual wind turbine, the associated infrastructure development causes wider habitat modification and destruction resulting in a displacement effect. Therefore, wind farm erections in strategic locations such as biodiversity hotspots should be subject to prior site based strategic environmental assessments (SEA) as well as environmental impact assessment (EIA) studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which examines the bird diversity of Overa-Aru Wildlife Sanctuary (WS) of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It notes that a survey of birds were conducted for approximately one week every month from October 2010 to June 2011. It reveals that a total of 702 individual birds were seen from the sanctuary representing 29 species, 22 families and five orders.

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Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) provide geographic targets for the expansion of protected area coverage, and identify sites for urgent conservation action. Identification of KBAs in the Indo-Burma Hotspot was undertaken during 2003, for a region of analysis comprising Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar (Burma), Thailand and Vietnam, plus parts of southern China. The starting point was information on 282 Important Bird Areas identified by BirdLife International and collaborators. These data were then overlaid with point locality data on globally threatened mammals, reptiles, amphibians, freshwater fish and plants, with additional KBAs identified as required. Through this process, a total of 438 KBAs were identified, covering 258,085km2 or 11.5 percent of the region of analysis. Only 58 percent of the KBAs are wholly or partly included within protected areas, suggesting that there may be a need for further expansion of protected area networks, particularly in Myanmar and Vietnam. The criteria for KBA identification are triggered by 812 species, of which 23 are believed only to occur at a single KBA globally. The KBAs have proven to be a useful conservation priority setting tool in Indo-Burma, helping to guide investments by various donors and application of environmental safeguard policies by international financial institutions. There are fewer examples of KBAs being used to guide expansion of protected area systems in Indo-Burma. In large part, this is because the period of rapid expansion of protected areas in most hotspot countries predated the KBA identification process, and political support for further significant expansion is currently limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An attempt is made to identify Key Biodiversity Areas in the Republic of Macedonia through the identification of internationally recognized important areas for biodiversity: Important Plant Areas (IPAs) and Important Bird Areas (IBAs). Forty two IPAs covering 6,495km2 and 24 IBAs covering 6,907km2 have been identified in Macedonia. Thirty seven IPAs (6,152km2 or 24% of the country's territory) and 15 IBAs (4,821km2 or 18.75% of the national territory), meet KBA criteria, between them yielding 42 KBAs. The remaining five IPAs and nine IBAs do not meet KBA criteria although have international significance. Together IPAs and IBAs total 10,698km2; those meeting the KBA criteria total 9,670km2. In total, 73% and 65% of the entire national protected areas (PAs) surface overlaps with IPAs and IBAs respectively. This proportion is 81% for the 42 KBAs. However, only 25% of the total size of protected areas overlaps with IPAs, only 21% overlap with IBAs, and only 19% with the combined 42 KBAs. This means that Macedonia's protected areas system is not yet representative and comprehensive for safeguarding its botanical and avian diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naliya Grassland is one of the significant grasslands of Gujarat. In this study the importance of the Naliya Grassland has been explored with special reference to avian diversity. Field work for the study was carried out throughout the year of 2007 on a monthly basis covering three distinct seasons to explore avian diversity. A total of 177 species belonging to 54 families were recorded wherein most species belonged to the family Accipitridae (20 species) followed by Alaudidae (11 species). Of the total families, five were represented by more than seven species, 18 families by 3-7 species and 31 families by one or two species respectively. Among the species observed, 16 species ware globally threatened (three Critically Endangered, four Endangered and nine Near Threatened). Most of the species were chiefly terrestrial (68.2%), about 23.9% species were freshwater dependant and 7.9% utilized mixed habitats. Maximum species richness was recorded in the monsoons and minimum in summer. Constant turnover and fluctuation in species richness occurred because of seasonal immigration and emigration. Maximum emigration took place during February and March and maximum immigration occurred during June and July. Many water dependant birds attracted to the flooded grassland during the monsoons explained the high species richness during this season. In winter, the area was inhabited by resident species as well as many migratory species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]