Species Richness and Habitat Associations of Birds in the Central Region of Maharashtra

Abdar Ramesh N.

Abstract: The present study investigates the avifaunal diversity in and around the Reserve Forest and Aquatic habitat of the Balaghat hill ranges, documenting a total of 69 bird species distributed across 5 orders and 15 families. This rich assemblage reflects the region?s ecological heterogeneity, encompassing deciduous forests, scrublands, and water bodies that collectively support a wide range of bird communities. The order Passeriformes dominated the species composition, with families such as Alaudidae, Sturnidae, and Ploceidae frequently represented, indicating the significance of open and cultivated landscapes. Insectivorous species like the Ashy Prinia and Drongo highlighted the health of the understory and insect prey base, while forest specialists such as the Indian Grey Hornbill and Crested Serpent Eagle signaled intact woodland patches. Water-associated birds, including egrets and wagtails, underscored the ecological value of riparian zones. Seasonal migrants, notably the Red-rumped Swallow and Yellow Wagtail, were recorded in winter, confirming the site?s importance along migratory routes. Local reports of declining House Sparrow populations were consistent with broader regional trends linked to habitat loss and pesticide use, while Indian Peafowl populations appeared stable due to sociocultural protection. The study also recorded nectarivores like the Purple Sunbird, highlighting their role in plant-pollinator dynamics. These findings affirm the Balaghat hill ranges as a critical habitat for diverse avian guilds and call for sustained ecological monitoring, community engagement, and targeted conservation initiatives to safeguard this biologically significant landscape.

Keywords: Avifaunal Diversity, Habitat Heterogeneity, Reserve Forest, Water bodies Migratory Birds, Conservation Ecology

How to Cite?: Abdar Ramesh N., "Species Richness and Habitat Associations of Birds in the Central Region of Maharashtra", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1446-1449, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25718105924, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25718105924