Eco-Morphological Exploration of Avian Communities and Floral Diversity: Bird-Tree Interactions at Waghai (Dang) Forest, South Gujarat, India
Description
The tropical deciduous forests of the Dang district in South Gujarat represent one of the most biodiverse regions in Western India. This study was conducted to document the avifaunal diversity and analyze how tree species composition, phenology, and structural complexity influence bird community dynamics. The primary objective was to quantify species richness and abundance while mapping the ecological niches occupied by different bird guilds in relation to specific tree species. Data were collected using point counts and opportunistic observations. For every bird sighting, the following parameters were recorded: species identity (Order, Family, Common Name), number of individuals, activity (e.g., feeding, calling, perching), and detailed substrate information (tree species name, GBH, tree height, and phenology). Canopy positioning was further categorized into vertical (Lower, Middle, Upper) and horizontal (Inner, Outer) strata to understand microhabitat preferences. A total of 1,003 individuals were recorded, representing 68 bird species belonging to 39 families and 16 orders. The study revealed a highly diverse community with a Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H') of 3.60, indicating a well-distributed and ecologically stable population. The Order Passeriformes was the most dominant, with the family Leiothrichidae (e.g., Jungle Babblers) showing the highest abundance. Other significant families included Columbidae (Pigeons and Doves) and Estrildidae (Munias). The analysis of feeding guilds showed a predominance of Insectivorous and Granivorous birds. A critical finding was the strong association between bird presence and specific tree species. Acacia nilotica, Tectona grandis, and Ficus species emerged as vital substrates for perching and feeding activities. Phenological data indicated that trees in the Fruiting and Flowering stages attracted significantly higher bird counts, particularly nectarivorous species like the Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus) and frugivores. Birds utilized different canopy layers based on their feeding habits. Insectivores were predominantly found in the middle and upper canopies, while granivores were often associated with the lower canopy or ground level. The "Inner" canopy was frequently used for perching and nesting, providing protection, whereas the "Outer" canopy was the primary site for active feeding and calling. The high species richness and diversity index underscore the conservation importance of the Waghai forest region. The significant correlation between tree phenology and bird activity suggests that maintaining a diverse tree species composition is essential for sustaining the avifaunal community. These findings provide a baseline for future conservation efforts and habitat management in the Dang district, highlighting the need to protect old-growth trees and diverse floral species to maintain ecological balance.
Files
Steps to reproduce
To replicate or extend this study, researchers should follow these standardized ecological survey steps: Step 1: Study Site Selection and Mapping: The study was conducted in Waghai, Dang, South Gujarat (specifically targeting regions near the Waghai Botanical Garden: WBG). Researchers should identify representative transects or points within various forest types (Teak-dominated, mixed deciduous, and botanical garden settings). Step 2: Observation Schedule: Surveys should be conducted during peak bird activity hours, typically between 06:30 to 10:30 AM and 16:00 to 18:30 PM. Observations in this dataset were recorded during the transition from winter to summer (February–March), capturing peak phenological events like flowering and fruiting. Step 3: Data Collection Parameters: For each bird encounter, record the following in a field notebook: • Taxonomy: Common name, Family, and Order (referencing standard guides like Ali & Ripley). • Abundance: Number of individuals seen or heard. • Activity: Categorize as Calling (C), Feeding (Fd), Flying (Fl), Nesting (N), Perching (P), or Preening (Pr). • Substrate Info: If perched on a tree, identify the tree species. Measure the Girth at Breast Height (GBH) in cm and estimate the Tree Height in meters. • Phenology: Note the state of the tree (D: Dry, FL: Flowering, FR: Fruiting, LF: Leafy). • Canopy Strata: Use a 3x2 grid: Vertical (Lower, Middle, Upper) and Horizontal (Inner, Outer). Step 4: Equipment Used • Binoculars (e.g., 8x42 or 10x42) for identification. • Measuring tape for GBH. • Rangefinder or clinometer for tree height estimation. • Field guides (e.g., "Birds of the Indian Subcontinent"). Step 5: Statistical Analysis: Data should be digitized into a spreadsheet. The following biostatistical analyses were performed: • Species Richness (S): Total count of unique species. • Abundance: Sum of individuals. • Shannon Diversity Index (H'): Calculated using the formula H' = - Σ pi ln(pi), where pi is the proportion of individuals belonging to the ith species. • Guild Analysis: Grouping species by feeding habits (Carnivorous, Frugivorous, etc.). • Association Mapping: Using pivot tables to relate bird species to tree species (Substrates). 6. Visualizations: The following charts represent the core findings of the ecological survey: • Feeding Guilds: Shows the dominance of Insectivores in the Waghai forest ecosystem. • Top 10 Species: Highlights the most abundant birds, led by babblers and pigeons. • Tree Association: Illustrates which tree species are most critical for the local avifauna.
Institutions
- Centre for Environment EducationGujarat, Ahmedabad
- The Charutar Vidya Mandal (CVM) UniversityGujarat, Vallabh Vidyanagar