ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVES ON AVIAN BIODIVERSITY IN CHANDIGARH: A FOCUS ON SUKHNA WETLAND

Birds form an important component of an ecosystem. Complex relationships exist between them and their biotic and abiotic environment. To understand these relationships, it becomes necessary to study different ecological aspects of birds and their environment. Present study entitled Avian Biodiversity In Chandigarh With Special Reference To Sukhna Wetland was carried out from December 2023 to March 2024 at Sukhna Wetland, Chandigarh.During the study period varying from December 2023 to March 2024, Bird community in and around Sukhna Wetland, Chandigarh represented nearly 12 aquatic waterfowls and many other avifauna. Out of twelve species, Pintail, Mallard and Greylag goose were most abundant species. The population of all the other species of birds likes Blue Rock Pigeons (Columba livia) (23.72%) Spotted Doves (Streptopelia chinensis), (7.62%) Red-wattled Lapwings (Vanellus indicus) (6.77%) House Crows (Corvus splendens), (11.01%) Common Mynas (Acridotheres tristis) (15.25%) Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) (6.77%) White-breasted Kingfisher (Halcyon symrnensis) (11.86%) White Wagtails (Motacilla alba) (16.94%) also varied throughout the study period. It can be concluded that some species occur throughout the year whereas other species may be present only during winter migratory season or for Breeding.