Bird composition in urban landscape of Punjab

Habitat structure and complexity are two main components determining bird community and its diversity. As urbanization continues, urban avifauna is becoming increasingly appropriate targets for research and conservation efforts. Bird population in six towns of Punjab was studied to identify habitat characteristics that define the distribution of various common bird species. Survey has revealed the presence of 25 avian species with maximum 17 in Begowal and 15 in Balachaur towns. Blue Rock Pigeon and House Crow were the most abundant species in urban areas. Active nests of seven bird species were observed in study areas during the survey. The urban features were observed to be more important in predicting nest-site selection and nest success within our study area than tree characteristics. It was concluded that food availability is a key driver of differences in avian demography and nest-site selection between landscapes. However, better-targeted research and monitoring is needed in areas that are at greatest threat from urbanization.