Avifaunal Diversity in and Around Katwal Tukum Lake, Tah-Bhadrawati, Chandrapur, Maharashtra

Abstract: The present study aimed to survey avifaunal diversity in and around Katwal Tukum Lake, located in Tah-Bhadrawati, Chandrapur, Maharashtra. Comprehensive field observations were conducted from October 2023 to April 2024 to compile a checklist of bird species, assess their migration patterns, and develop conservation recommendations based on the findings. A total of 92 bird species were recorded, representing 43 families and 16 orders, indicating a thriving and healthy ecosystem. Notable findings include the dominance of the Passeriformes order, which accounted for 33 species, followed by Anseriformes and Charadriiformes with 12 and 9 species, respectively. Additionally, Pelecaniformes, Coraciiformes, and Gruiformes were represented by 10, 6, and 4 species, respectively. Lesser represented orders included Cuculiformes, Suliformes, Accipitriformes, Podicipediformes, Columbiformes, Bucerotiformes, Ciconiiformes, Piciformes, Galliformes, and Stigiformes. The study identified 26 migratory species, 28 resident migratory species and 38 resident species, underscoring the vital role of the surrounding forests in providing essential resources and habitats for a wide range of avian species. This research contributes valuable data to our understanding of bird diversity and seasonal patterns at Katwal Tukum Lake and highlights the need for targeted conservation strategies and habitat management practices to protect this diverse avian community.