Diversity and status of avian species in the Rann of Hadda, Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)

Abstract

The aim of this research was to study the avian species at wetlands in the warm climatic conditions of the Thar Desert. The research was conducted on the diversity, composition, and status of bird species at Hadda Rann in Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan, India. Direct observation, point count, and flock count methods were used. Total 143 bird species were recorded. These species belong to 41 families in 16 orders. Among 143 species, 74 were winter visitors, 61 were residents, 5 were passage migrants and 3 were summer migrants. The maximum number of bird species (49 species) belongs to 16 families of the Passeriformes order. A minimum number of species (one species) was recorded in the orders of Psittaciformes, Bucerotiformes, and Falconiformes. The maximum diversity was observed during the winter season, while the minimum diversity was noted during the summer season. A critically endangered species, the White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis), was also pointed out at this place. Out of the total avian species, 130 bird species were of the least concern category, two endangered, one critically endangered, five near threatened, and five species were belonged to the vulnerable category. This study can play a crucial part in raising public awareness of the wetland’s importance for conservation.