Journal of Ecology and Conservation

ABSTRACT

This study investigates seasonal variations in bird diversity and its relationship with vegetation structure in the Someshwar Range Forest, Madi, Chitwan, Nepal. The forest was divided into lower and upper elevation belts, and bird data were collected using the point count method, identifying 101 bird species across 11 orders and 32 families. Seasonal analysis revealed higher species richness in winter compared to summer, though statistical tests indicated no significant seasonal variation (P = 0.674). The increased richness in winter is likely due to enhanced food availability and favorable weather conditions, while the lower summer richness may be attributed to harsher environmental factors. Elevation significantly influenced bird diversity, with greater species richness observed in the lower belts (ANOVA: F = 5.46, P < 0.05). A strong positive correlation was found between bird species richness and tree species diversity (r = 0.69) and tree density (r = 0.71). Conversely, a negative correlation with tree diameter at breast height (DBH) (r = -0.539) suggests that areas with larger, older trees may support fewer bird species. These findings highlight the critical role of habitat diversity and structure in supporting avian populations and emphasize the effects of elevation and seasonal changes on bird diversity.

Article History

Received 18 July 2024; Revised 30 July 2024; Accepted 06 August 2024

KEYWORDS

1. Species richness
2. Edge effect
3. Elevation belt
4. Correlation
5. Sustainable Development