An annotated avian checklist of Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, India

Abstract

The Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) boasts a variety of habitats, including forest, riparian, degraded forest, and transitional zones located near human settlements and cropland. From 2019 to 2022, a thorough avian survey was conducted using the point count method, covering all habitats and seasons. The study documented 227 avian species from 65 families and 18 orders. Of the bird species observed, 72.3% were resident, and 27.7% were migratory. Over the study period, one Endangered species, three Vulnerable, and six Near Threatened species were recorded based on their IUCN Red List status. The avian diversity pattern in BWS is influenced by a variety of factors, including forest contiguity and heterogeneous habitat. Proper evaluation and management of habitats are essential for the recovery and preservation of fragile environments susceptible to decline in the region.

Keywords

• Avifauna
• diversity
• eastern Himalaya
• heterogeneo