Avian assemblages in the waste landfills: Observations from urban sites in West Bengal, India

Abstract

Urban dumpsites, often regarded as environmental eyesores, may play an unexpected ecological role by providing habitats for avian species. In this context, the present study was conducted to justify whether dumpsites can sustain bird populations and enhance urban biodiversity. We recorded the bird abundance and species richness through surveys at four well-known urban dumpsites in Kolkata and surrounding areas between February and June 2024. We encountered a variety of common and rare bird species that use the dumpsite for feeding, breeding, and roosting using established methods. The dumping area close to the agricultural fields had a higher bird species richness compared to the urbanized area. However, the urban dumping areas exhibited comparatively higher bird abundance. House Crow (Corvus splendens) and Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) were the two most common species at the dumpsites. This work emphasizes the importance of studying the bird groups concerning landfill sites and management, as a significant influx of birds could lead to various environmental challenges in metropolitan areas.