Avifaunal diversity of Moharli Lake, near Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve, Chandrapur (Maharashtra)

Abstract

Lakes and their basins are major repositories of biodiversity. Monitoring the basin and their respective water bodies requires an assessment of avifaunal diversity, as birds are a health indicator of the ecosystem. The present investigation focused on the avifauna diversity of Moharli Lake and its environs. Moharli Lake is located a short distance from the Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in the Chandrapur district of Maharashtra. Serving as one of the primary entrances to TATR, the Moharli gate overlooks this perennial freshwater lake. Abundant in nutrients, the lake supports a diverse avian population, including migratory bird species. The lake and its environs were surveyed nightly throughout the study duration, spanning from June 2014 to April 2015. The birds were classified into five distinct groups based on their habitat. A total of 81 species, representing 67 genera across 31 families within 13 orders, were documented and classified according to their status and occurrence, including migratory species. The presence of birds was meticulously documented alongside their dietary inclinations and feeding behaviors. The diverse bird community within the study area indicates a conducive habitat for both breeding and sustenance. A comprehensive analysis of avifaunal diversity in this region will aid in formulating conservation strategies for the future.

Keywords

• avifauna
• biodiversity
• Feeding habits
• Migratory
• Tadoba Andhari