Avifaunal Diversity and Feeding Guild Structure in and Around Unkal Lake: A Semiarid Urban Wetland in Karnataka, India

Abstract

The study assessed species composition and distribution of birds through food choices and habitat resources found in wetland and terrestrial habitat in and around Unkal lake. Total of 196 species from 62 families were identified, representing around 35% of the species reported from Karnataka. Rare and coastal birds are sighted due to the region's unique habitat. The avifaunal diversity was H'=4.44 and D=0.979. Hierarchical cluster analysis of the feeding specialization based on families showed that 119 species (60%) had multiple feeding habits; 75 species (40%) being specifics. Insectivore guild with abundance of 37% was the most dominant group distributed in multiple habitats. Terrestrial habitat (26.2%) was the most dominant constituting multiple feeding guilds with greater species diversity & abundance. Correspondence analysis revealed the weakest relationship between arboreal habitat & scavengers, whereas the strongest association among arial habitat & insectivores. Waterbird diversity shows variation with water depth/rainfall changes, as most waterbird diversity depends on shallow water and mud/marsh habitats. This study provides data on avian diversity, concerning threats and feeding guilds, which gives insight about role/information of the habitat. The need for proper conservation and development of this vital ecosystem through long term monitoring is the need of the time.

Keywords: Birds, Hubballi, Dharwad district, Feeding guild, Microhabitat