Avian diversity and range extension records of eastern ghat, western ghat, and Himalayan species to Kanger Valley National Park and adjoining Machkote forest range, Bastar division, Chhattisgarh, India

Abstract

This study was undertaken to determine the status of avifauna and in particular to identify the species which extend their distribution range from Eastern Ghat, Western Ghat and Himalayas into Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) and Mackote Forest Range (MFR), Bastar division, Chhattisgarh. The study revealed presence of 311 species, belonging to 18 Orders and 70 families in different habitats in and around KVNP and MFR. Out of these 311 species, 10 species belonged to IUCN Red Data List of which 3 were recorded as Critically Endangered species, 1 Endangered species, 2 Vulnerable species and 4 Near Threatened species. 23 species were found either extending their distribution range from Eastern Ghat, Western Ghat, and Himalayas into KVNP and MFR or were of ornithological significance. 25 first-time reported species hitherto are unreported from Bastar region were also recorded. Breeding or relevant behavior by 10 important species was also observed.