Bird Species Diversity in the Surrounding Communities of Zugurma Sector, Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria

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Abstract

Birds play a crucial role in maintaining the equilibrium of ecosystems by providing numerous services. The study investigated the quantity, composition, distribution, and variety of birds in the Zugurma sector of Kainji Lake National Park in Nigeria. The neighbouring communities of the study area, namely Patiko (Site A), Nasarawa (Site B), and Wara (Site C), were examined between September 2018 and February 2019. The assessment of bird species was conducted using line transects. The Paleontological statistics package (PAST 2.17) was utilised for data analysis. A total of 69 avian species belonging to 33 distinct families and ten different Orders were identified. The most prominent and plentiful bird species observed were Pyconontus barbatus, commonly known as the Common bulbul, accounting for 178 individuals (5.32%); Apus apus, also known as the Common swift, with
122 individuals (3.64%); and Streptoplia vinacea, commonly referred to as the Vinaceous dove, with an unspecified number of individuals. The Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index revealed that Nassarawa (Site B) exhibited the highest bird diversity (3.851), followed by Wara (Site C) with a diversity index of 3.827. In contrast, Patiko (Site A) had the lowest bird diversity, with a score of 3.781. The overall diversity indexes were high. Therefore, a proposed program to periodically tag local bird species is suggested to monitor and record their movements. Regularly, it is important to conduct public education and awareness initiatives properly.