A comparative study of avian species distribution across different habitats in Rajkot city area, Gujarat

Abstract

From January 2018 to December 2020, an investigation was conducted on the species diversity, guild, and present status of the avifauna in Rajkot city situated in Rajkot District. The study employed the point count approach. It was noted that there were 44 bird species in Garden habitat; 64 bird species in wetland habitats; 25 bird species in human habitation and 56 bird species in grassland habitat. In terms of relative diversity, passerine bird species outnumbered non-passerine bird species in all four habitats; 18 species, 24 species, 13 species and 24 species respectively in Garden, Wetland, Human habitation and Grassland habitats. The most prevalent feeding guild for all four habitats, was omnivore (36.36%) followed by carnivore (27.27%) in Garden habitat; was omnivore (37.5%) followed by carnivore (26.56%) in Wetland habitat; was omnivore (32%) followed by carnivore and granivore (24%) in human habitation; and was omnivore (37.93%) followed by carnivore (25.86%) in Grassland habitat. According to this study's IUCN status observations, one species, i.e. Black headed ibis, as Near Threatened were found in all four Garden, Wetland, Human habitation and Grassland habitats. It is hoped that this study will assist to bring awareness to Rajkot city officials and people to conserve and preserve of its bird fauna.