Avian diversity in relation to exotic trees in Ludhiana, Punjab
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Date
2020
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Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana
Abstract
The present study on avian community in relation to exotic trees was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana (Location I) and Gurpal Nagar, Ludhiana (Location II). Five different exotic trees were selected i.e. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus tereticornis), The Silver Oak (Grevillea robusta), Poplar (Populus deltoides), The Monkey Puzzle (Araucaria araucana) and Bottle brush (Callistemon viminalis). A total of 23 species of birds were observed on selected tree species from May 2018 to April 2019. Highest species richness (14) was recorded on Bottle Brush tree. Lowest species richness (2) was found on Monkey puzzle (Araucaria araucana). Trees under study provided nesting sites for four bird species i.e. Baya weaver (Ploceus philippinus), Rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), House Crow (Corvus splendens), Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis). Four bird species were observed nesting at location I while only one was observed at location II. Selection of nesting site, nesting materials and nesting structures were monitored and studied. Total 24 nests (six on Bottle brush tree, two on The Silver Oak tree, seven on Poplar tree, nine on Eucalyptus tree) were recorded. Out of these, five nests were of Baya weaver (Ploceus philippinus), four nests were of Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittiacula krameri), Thirteen nests were of House Crow (Corvus splendens) and two nests were of Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis). Breeding of all the 4 bird species was noticed. This study suggests that invasion of exotic tree species affects the distribution of avian fauna. Introduction of exotic trees and human disturbance have affected the density of birds.