The avian diversity of Deccan/ Western Bastar Plateau, Bastar Division, Chhattisgarh

Abstract

This much-needed study was undertaken from January 2017 to March 2020, in which 260 species were recorded in the geographical area of Dantewada and Bijapur districts, including Indravati Tiger Reserve. The study revealed the presence of 260 avians, both resident and migratory categories. Ten threatened category species were found, Critically Endangered two species, Vulnerable two species, and Near Threatened six Species,, including Malabar Pied Hornbill reported recently after 1991. One species was found extending its distribution range. The avian species encountered were categorized by feeding habits, the number of birds were found highest as Omnivorous and most petite as Nectarivores. In Indravati Tiger Reserve, this study revealed the presence of 165 additional species, which were not mentioned previously. Interestingly, species such as Pink-headed Duck and Lesser Florican have past records but have not been recorded in recent years. Finding a juvenile of Black Baza suggests its breeding in this area. Himalayan. Vulture was found in March 2020, the first record from Chhattisgarh. The entire area is subjected to multiple threats like large-scale poaching by locals, law and order problems, Iron ore mining, new Railway tracks and Power transmission line projects and two multipurpose hydel projects envisaged on river Indravati. These need to be mitigated. Despite our attempts, there is always scope for additions to our bird list.