Current Status of Ornithofauna of Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Background: The bird diversity in many districts of Uttar Pradesh is still unexplored. Information on baseline data of species can be used to set priorities, allowing conservation effort to be focused on those species that need the most attention. This study was therefore undertaken to investigate the Ornithfauna of Ambedkar Nagar. Methods: Extensive field surveys were undertaken in all the three season i.e. rainy, summer and winter. Line transects and point count methods were used for the bird counting. Results: During the three years of study (November 2015-December 2018), a diverse variety of 170 bird species was discovered. The highest bird species belonged to family Passeridae (13) followed by Anatidae (12), Corvidae (12) and Muscicapidae (11). However, no particular site was discovered that could be identified as a birding spot in the district. The lakes such as Darvan, Hanswar, Devhat have the potential to support rich avifaunal diversity however they were under serious threats due to various anthropogenic activities. Conclusion: The study reflects the potential of Ambedkar Nagar to support a rich diversity of ornithofauna. There was a need to reduce anthropogenic mortality of birds or to educate the public to support for and to implement remedial measures. The organization of bird watching events on various occasions such as World Wetlands Day, International Day for Biological Diversity and World Wildlife Week will draw the intention and interest of local people and youth. Further studies based on the ecology of threatened and endangered birds are needed.