BIRD DIVERSITY ASSESSMENT

IN TWO HABITATS OF
POLASSERY, VAIKOM.
Submitted by: Aryan Chakravarthy
Registration Number: 210021037624
Under the Guidance of Dr. Mathew Thomas
INTRODUCTION
• In recent years, the conservation of biodiversity has emerged as a pressing concern worldwide, prompting
researchers and conservationists to explore and protect diverse ecosystems. Among these ecosystems, avian
habitats stand out for their rich biodiversity and ecological significance. In this project, we turn our attention
to Polassery WardNumber 24,situated in Kerala, India, as a focal point for exploring the diversity of bird
species within its boundaries.
• Polassery is a village located in the Vaikom municipality of Kottayam district in the southern Indian state of
Kerala.Vaikom is known for its historical significance, cultural heritage, and beautiful backwaters.It's a part
of theKottayam district, which is renowned foritsscenic landscapes,rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture
• As part of this project, I aim to delve into the intricacies of bird diversity within Polassery Ward Number
24.By conducting systematic surveys, observations, and data analysis, I seek to uncover the richness of
avifauna inhabiting this region. This study not only sheds light on the ecological significance of Polassery but
also contributes to the broader understanding of bird diversity.I hope to not only document the avian
inhabitants of Polassery but also raise awareness about the importance of preserving their natural habitats.By
sharing my findings and experiences, we aspire to foster a deeper appreciation for the feathered residents of
Polassery and inspire future generationsto cherish and protect Kerala's avian treasures.
AIM
• To comprehensively document the bird species diversity within Polassery
WardNumber24, including their distribution, abundance, and habitat preferences,
to contribute to local biodiversity conservation efforts and enhance community
awareness and engagementin avian conservation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
• The study was conducted in PolasseryWard Number 24,focusing on the bird
species diversity within this locality .Data collection occurred over a period
of one month, specifically during the month of January. Observations were
conducted on random days within this time frame to minimize biases
associated with specific weather conditions or day-of-week patterns. Two
sites were selected ,Site 1 which includes the common open areas of ward
24 and Site 2 which includes the riverside of kolothumkadavu fish market.
• Observations were conducted during the morning hours, from 7:00 AM to
10:00 AM. This time frame was chosen to coincide with peak bird activity
periods, maximizing the likelihood of species detection.
• Direct observation method & Total count method were employed.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
• During this period a total of 28 avian species belonging to 21 families
were recorded .
• The Corvidae family recorded the highest number of species(27),
including Indian house crows,jungle crows,RufousTreepies
• The totalbird speciesidentifiedwere confined to eight
orders:Passeriformes, Charadriiformes, Coraciiformes,
Columbiformes, Pelecaniformes, Cuculiformes, Piciformes, and
Psittaciformes.A significantnumber of observations belonged to the
order Passeriformes.
• Site 1 includes 23 species and Site 2 includes 5 .
House crow Asian green bee eater

Black winged stilt Red whiskered bulbul

Common snipe House sparrow

Rock pigeon
Cattle egret
 Greater racket tailed
drongo White throated kingfisher

Common myna

Common kingfisher Greater coucal

 Tailor bird
Jungle babbler

White cheeked barbet Oriental magpie robin Rufous treepie

 Black rumped flameback Black drongo

Lotens sunbird

Asian koel

Rose ringed parakeet

 Indian pond heron Indian jungle crow

Little cormorant

Great egret
White breasted waterhen
CONCLUSION
• During the study conducted in Polassery Ward Number 24, a total of 28 avian species belonging to 21
families were observed acrosstwo selected sites: public areas within the ward and the riverside near
Kolothumkadavu Fish Market. The diversity of bird species was assessed using methodologies such as
total count and direct observations.
• The Corvidae family exhibited the highest species richness 27 species.
• In Site 1, a total of 23 bird species belonging to 11 different families were recorded.The most frequently
observed species include the House crow (Corvidae) with 20 individuals, followed by the Indian jungle
crow (Corvidae) with 5 individuals. Most species recorded in Site 1 belong to the order Passeriformes,
indicating the dominance of perching birds in this habitat
• On the other hand, Site 2 exhibited a slightly lower diversity, with a total of 5 bird species belonging to 4
families recorded. The Little cormorant (Phalacrocoracidae) was the most abundant species observed,
with 6 individuals recorded.The order Passeriformes also dominated Site 2, albeit with fewe rspecies
compared to Site 1.
• Overall, the findings suggest that Site 1, characterized by common open areas,supports a higher diversity
of bird species compared to Site 2, located near the riverside of the Kolothumkadavu Fish Market.