Avian diversity of Thattrkkad bird sanctuary & Wayanad wildlife sanctuary of Kerala

Abstract

The present study investigated avian diversity within Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary and Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, India. Field surveys were conducted during September-October 2024 using line transects and point count methodologies to document bird species across both protected areas. Our survey revealed 35 bird species in Thattekkad and 50 species in Wayanad, with approximately 20% of recorded species in each sanctuary falling under threatened conservation categories (Near Threatened, Vulnerable, or Threatened). In Thattekkad, 77.1% of species were classified as Least Concern, 5.7% as Near Threatened, 14.3% as Vulnerable, and 2.9% as Data Deficient. Similarly, Wayanad showed 74% of species as Least Concern, 10% as Near Threatened, 12% as Vulnerable, 2% as Threatened, and 2% as Data Deficient. Both sanctuaries shared several species including the Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis), which is categorized as Vulnerable. The findings highlight the ecological significance of these protected areas within the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot as crucial refuges for threatened avian species, supporting diverse ecological guilds including predators, pollinators, seed dispersers, and insectivores.