International Journal of Fauna and Biological Studies
2016, Vol. 3 Issue 5, Part A
Status of avifaunal diversity in saline marsh and swampy habitats of Visakhapatnam coastal environments
Author(s):
Aparna S and Raja Sekhar PS
Abstract:
The salt water marshes and marshy swamps which are influenced by tidal periodicity in the coastal areas support diversified habitat conditions for the distribution of variety of avifaunal diversities. Ecological studies related to avifaunal associations and their interactions with characteristic vegetation of these wetlands could provide insights for formulating suitable conservation and management strategies for protection and restoration of these fragile habitats of important birding sites. A total of 54 bird species belonging to 18 families of aquatic habitat and 69species of terrestrial origin consisting 31families were enumerated from the three study sites. From these 34 species enumerated from aquatic habitat. Among these the bird species: Pintail (
Anas acuta); Cotton Teal (
Nettapus coromandelianus); Common Teal (
Nettio crecca); Shoveller (
Spatula clypeata) and Brahminy duck (
Tadorna ferruginea) total fifteen were winter migrants. While five species were local migrant category and remaining thirty four species were resident birds utilized the habitats for their feeding and shelter. Based on avifaunal diversity and present ecological status, these sites have been recommended for Integrated Protected Area Management Systems (IAPMS) Network of Andhra Pradesh Forest department to develop as “Urban Wildlife Refuges†for protection of winter migrants and terrestrial avifauna associated to these wetland habitats.
Pages: 01-06 | 2215 Views 525 Downloads
Aparna S and Raja Sekhar PS. Status of avifaunal diversity in saline marsh and swampy habitats of Visakhapatnam coastal environments. Int. J. Fauna Biol. Stud. 2016;3(5):01-06.