Species diversity and abundance of avifauna in the university of agriculture, Benue state, north central Nigeria

Abstract

The main objective of the study was to determine the species composition, relative abundance and species diversity of avifauna found in and around University of Agriculture Makurdi fish ponds. Transect line approach and direct observation methods were deployed for bird’s survey. Transect line approach was established using the dykes on the edges of the fish ponds with an interval of 4m apart. A pair of binoculars was used for direct observation of birds. Data was collected by carefully walking through the dykes on the edges of the fish ponds, counting the birds seen in and around the fish ponds. A field guide “birds of West Africa by Serle et al (1992)” was used for identification of birds. Data were analyzed using paired t–test, non paired t–test and independent t–test to test for the diversity between terrestrial and aquatic birds. Frequency and percentage were used to estimate the relative abundance of each species. A total of 17 species made up of 11 terrestrial and 6 aquatic birds belonging to 14 families were identified. A total of 978 birds comprising of both terrestrial and aquatic birds were recorded in the morning hours. While 988 birds comprising of both terrestrial and aquatic birds were recorded in the morning. Ardeola ibis was the most abundant species (21.55%), followed by Streptopelia decipiens (13.73%). It was concluded that the birds observed were mainly local species such as Actophilormis africana, Clamator jacobinus, Centropus senegalensis, Ploceus nigerrimus, and many other species. There was no significant difference in the number of terrestrial and aquatic birds observed during the study. Further studies should be conducted to cover wet season and nocturnal birds to generate a comprehensive list of bird species in and around the University fish farm.