DIVERSITY, STATUS AND GUILD STRUCTURE OF AVIFAUNA IN HANUMANTHAPURA LAKE, TUMAKURU, KARNATAKA, INDIA

Mamatha H C and Parimala B

Abstract

Aves are aesthetically pleasing creatures in nature. Their vivid colours, melodious cries, unusual appearance and distinctive behaviour have always captivated and fascinated humanity. These characteristics play an important role in environmental assessment by indicating the presence or absence of particular species. The diversity of avifauna within lake ecosystem is vital component of biodiversity, reflecting the stability and health of aquatic ecosystem. Wetland are vital habitat for variety of aquatic fauna and flora, especially bird species, by providing fundamental resources as nesting ground, food and migratory areas. The bird population in diverse habitats demonstrates the community structure and significance of the landscapes. Hanumanthapura lake is perennial in nature with rich aquatic vegetation and habitat structure, supporting diverse niches for both resident and migratory bird populations. Hence a study on avian species was conducted at Hanumanthapura Lake of Tumkur district Karnataka, from Dec-2023 to Nov-2024. The aim of the present study was to determine the diversity of avifauna with respect to Taxonomical Distribution and Species Richness in Hanumanthapura Lake.

This study revealed that 43 species of birds belonging to 11 orders 23 families during the study period. During the study more species were sighted in order Passeriformes (10), Pelecaniformes (9) followed by Charadriiformes (5), Galliformes (4), Ciconiiformes (3), Accipitriformes (3) and Coraciiformes (3). It was evident that Purple Moorhen, Coots and Ducts have developed high tolerance to this highly fluctuating habitat and anthropogenic activity. Avifaunal diversity has been decreasing due to human disturbances which leads to destruction of their habitats. Avifauna and their ecology are important to protect them. Therefore, detailed further studies needed to identify the limnobiological studies.