Exploring the Avian Ecology of Freshwater Lakes in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, India

Freshwater habitats in urban landscapes play vital role in maintaining the overall ecological as well as economical balance of the region. Therefore, understanding the status of avian species diversity becomes crucial. In this study, we assessed species richness, diversity and evenness of four freshwater lakes of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar city. A total of 140 species of birds were recorded in the study. This study examines the notable decline in bird species diversity, particularly in Salim Ali Lake, which has experienced a significant reduction in both species richness and overall ecological health. Through an analysis of four freshwater habitats — Sawangi Lake, Harsul Lake, Walmi Lake, and Salim Ali Lake—our results reveal a clear disparity in species diversity. Salim Ali Lake showed the lowest diversity index (1.78) and evenness (0.77), whereas Sawangi Lake and Harsul Lake exhibited relatively higher diversity and a more balanced distribution of species. The decline in bird diversity at Salim Ali Lake appears to be primarily driven by anthropogenic factors, such as urban development in the surrounding areas, as well as environmental pressures, including climate change.