Diversity, distribution and abundance of the avian fauna of Dhati-Walel National Park, Western Ethiopia

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate bird diversity, distribution and abundance in Dhati-Walel National Park, western Ethiopia. After reconnaissance survey, detailed data collections were carried out from June to September 2013 and March to May 2014 for the wet season and from November 2013 to February 2014 for the dry season. The study area was stratified based on vegetation. Three habitats types: wetland, woodland, and riverine forest, were identified for counting birds. The habitat type was classified into blocks. Representative samples were taken from each habitat type. Line transect method was employed for wetland and woodland habitat and point count method was employed for riverine forest. A total of 124 avian species belonging to 18 orders and 50 families were identified during the study period. During the wet season, highest avian diversity was observed in woodland ( followed by riverine forest ( . The least diversity of avian species was observed in the riverine forest ( whereas during thedry season, highest avian diversity was observed in woodland ( followed by riverine forest ( . The least diversity of avian species was observed in the wetland ( . During the wet season, more similarity of bird species was obtained from woodland and riverine forest (SI=0.44) followed by woodland and wetland (SI= 0.11). During the dry season, more similarity of bird species was obtained from woodland and riverine forest (SI=0.31) followed by wetland and riverine forest (SI= 0.15). Mean abundance of species composition among the three habitats showed significant difference at 0.05 level of significance (F= 15.810, p < 0.05). But insignificant difference was shown during wet and dry seasons at 0.05 level of significance (F= 0.632 = 0.658, p > 0.05). Awareness creation, conservation, and active community participation are essential for maintaining the habitats and avian fauna of the area.