Effects of anthropogenic activities on bird diversity in an urban waterbody (Bhoj Wetland), Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

Abstract

Tropical forests being rich in biodiversity are becoming increasingly fragmented and degraded, hence are declined due to human intervention, ultimately threatening survival of birds. The present study was envisaged to highlight the impact of anthropogenic activities on avifauna. Our study revealed habitat destruction (60%) being the most detrimental human activity on avifauna diversity habitats due to timber extraction, livestock grazing, firewood and medicinal herbs, however, hunting of birds for continuous use (15%) only affected limited bird species. Two areas were taken protected areas (possessing low cultivation, overgrazing, and logging) and second unprotected areas (having higher levels of intervention). Farms around the wetlands increased bird diversity. The current study demands strict actions on illegal forest exploitation to ensure survival of avifauna diversity in Bhoj Wetland, Bhopal. Proper management not only will improve the current situation for its dweller species, but also will attract more species in future.