Composition and Diversity of Birds Along the old Gongola River from Kupto to Dadin Kowa Community in Gombe State, Nigeria

The Gongola river is a significant tributary of the Benue river that meets the river Niger at Lokoja. It is a wetland that supports livelihood across six northern states and beyond. In this study, we sampled avifauna diversity from a section of the river (Kupto--Dadin-kowa reservoir) and surrounding landscapes to develop a checklist as a first step in measuring the ecological significance of the river. Point count census method was employed. We recorded a total of 3146 individuals from 212 species. One hundred and thirty eight (138) genera, in 62 families and 20 orders were also recorded. Thirty eight (38) AEWA listed species were recorded with a total abundance of 1188 individuals, accounting for 37.8 % of the overall abundance of all species combined. The most abundant bird species was the white faced whistling duck (Dendrocygna viduata) with a total of 622 individuals, followed by the laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis) with 170 individuals. The most species rich family was Accipitridae with a total of 19 species, followed by Ardeidae, Columbidae and Estrildidae with 10 species each. Insectivores were the most diverse functional and feeding guild with a total of 63 species and cumulative abundance of 721 individuals, followed by granivores and omnivores with a total of 39 and 36 individuals respectively. One hundred and fifty two species (152) were resident within range of occurrence, accounting for 71.7 % of total number of bird species recorded; while 60 bird species (28.3 %) were observed to be involved in one form of migration or the other. The preponderance of both migratory and resident bird species underscores the ecological significance of this wetland ecosystem for avian conservation. More detailed and systematic studies are required to assess the population dynamics and conservation status of the avifauna in the area. The river holds great potential as an avifaunal sanctuary if protective measures are taken to preserve and conserve its ecological integrity.