Avian diversity at Sonvad water reservoir in Dhule district (Maharashtra): An important wetland site for waterfowl

Abstract

The avifauna of Sonvad water reservoir near Dhule (Maharasgtra) included a total of 220 species of birds from 61families and 21orders. The bird were classified by residential status, occurrence, feeding guild as well as on utilization of microhabitats. The sighting records show visits by at least 11 bird species (4.55%) of ‘Near Threatened’ species of the red-data book of International Union for Conservation of Nature. Common Pochard (Aythya ferina) is the only ‘Vulnerable’ species sighted occasionally in good numbers, while Egyptian Vulture (Neophron percnopterus) is the only ‘Endangered’ species sighted once. In view of the considerable avian biodiversity, Sonwad water reservoir is an important wetland for birds. It has the potential to develop into a bird sanctuary with suitable protection, adequate management and coordinated efforts of local and Government authorities.