A preliminary study of avifaunal diversity in the outskirts of Belagumba, Tumkur District, Karnataka

Biodiversity refers to the variety and abundance of species in different habitats. An ecosystem with rich iodiversity provides more alternatives for transferring energy. Birds are one of the most important components of any ecosystem and the best indicators of ecological changes. The objective of this study was to record and examine the avian diversity in the selected habitats of Belagumba village adjoining the Devarayana Durga state forest. The study was carried out during March-2023 to April-2024 in some of the selected agricultural habitats like arecanut plantation, coconut plantation, flower garden and vegetable croplands with sparse residential houses. The bird survey was done by following the point count method. Identification of birds was based on field guidelines and with the help of ornithologists. In the present study, 52 species of birds belonging to 13 orders and 26 families with an endangered species, Egyptian vulture have been recorded. Among these, order Passeriformes is represented by 17 species, Cuculiformes -04 species, Accipitriformes and Piciformes each by 03 species, Pelecaniformes, Columbiformes, Galliformes, Apodiformes, Coraciiformes, Bucerotiformes each by 02 species and Psittaciformes, Strigiformes and Charadriiforms’ each by 01 species. As the study area is adjoining the forest ecosystem of Devarayana Durga state forest and with diversified croplands, plantations, it provides suitable and preferred habitat for birds.