BIRD DIVERSITY ASSESSMENT IN

TWO HABITATS OF POLASSERY,

VAIKOM.

This project is submitted for the partial fulfillment of the BSc Degree in Zoology at
Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam

ST. THOMAS COLLEGE PALA

Submitted by: Aryan Chakravarthy

Registration Number: 210021037624
Under the Guidance of Dr. Mathew Thomas
 CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the thesis titled " Bird Diversity Assessment in Two habitats of
Polassery, Vaikom," submitted by Aryan Chakravarthy for the award of the Bachelor of
Science degree in Zoology from Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam, represents the
original work conducted by Aryan Chakravarthy during his final year of the BSc course at the
Department of Zoology, St. Thomas College, Pala. The research was conducted under my
supervision and guidance, and no part of it has been presented for any degree, diploma, or
fellowship previously.

Date: Dr Mathew Thomas

Place:
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the present work, in the form of a thesis entitled " Bird Diversity
Assessment in Two habitats of Polassery, Vaikom," is an original piece of research conducted
by me under the guidance of Dr. Mathew Thomas, Head of the Department of Zoology, at St.
Thomas College, Pala. No part of this project has been presented earlier for any degree,
diploma, or similar title at any other university or institution.

Date:
Place: Palai
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I extend my sincere gratitude to Dr. Mathew Thomas, Head of the Department of Zoology at
St. Thomas College, Pala, for his invaluable insights and guidance throughout the project. I
also wish to thank Dr. Jayesh Antony and Dr. Pratheesh Mathew, Assistant Professors of the
Department of Zoology at St. Thomas College, Pala, for their support and provision of
facilities necessary for the completion of this project report. Furthermore, I acknowledge the
helpful feedback provided by my seniors on earlier versions of this report.

Date:
Place: Palai
TABLE OF CONTENTS

➢ Abstract
➢ Introduction
➢ Review of Literature
➢ Objective
➢ Materials and Methods
➢ Result
➢ Discussion
➢ Conclusion
➢ BIBLIOGRAPHY
 ABSTRACT

The project focuses on Bird Diversity Assessment in two habitats of Polassery, Vaikom, located in
Kottayam, Vaikom P.O. Two sites were selected for field study: Site 1 encompasses the open areas of
Ward 24, while Site 2 covers the riverside of Kolothumkadavu Fish Market. A total of 28 species
were identified by combining observations from both sites. The study was conducted on
random days in January, utilizing both direct observation and total count methods. Its objective is to
identify all distinct bird species present in Ward 24 of Polassery.
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 Ward Number 24, situated in Kerala, India, as a
focal point for exploring the diversity of bird species within its boundaries.

Background: 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 the Kottayam district, which is renowned for its scenic
landscapes, rich biodiversity, and vibrant culture. Polassery, like many villages in Kerala, likely
has its own unique charm and local attractions. From the bustling activity of the house crow
(Corvus splendens) in urban areas to the tranquil sightings of the Little Cormorant (Microcarbo
niger) by the backwaters, each corner of Polassery offers a glimpse into the avian wonders of
Kerala. 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 our findings and
experiences, we aspire to foster a deeper appreciation for the feathered residents of
Polassery and inspire future generations to cherish and protect Kerala's avian treasures.
Vaikom, the charming municipality situated in the heart of Kottayam district, Kerala, serves as the
gateway to the enchanting backwaters of the region. Steeped in history and culture, Vaikom is
renowned for its sacred temples, serene waterways, and vibrant local traditions. The tranquil
backwaters that meander through the town offer a picturesque setting for birdwatching
enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From the iconic Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, steeped in
mythology and spirituality, to the tranquil Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vaikom offers a myriad of
experiences for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural
heritage of Kerala. Whether exploring the narrow lanes of the old town or embarking on a leisurely
boat ride along the backwaters, Vaikom captivates with its serene ambiance and timeless allure.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Numerous ornithological surveys conducted across Kerala have contributed significantly to the
understanding of bird diversity and conservation strategies in the region. A comprehensive
exploration of avian fauna has been facilitated by these studies, emphasizing the importance of
preserving Kerala's rich birdlife. Sasikumar (2002) documented 165 bird species from 43 families
in the Kettiyoor Reserve Forest, underscoring the area's ecological significance. Similarly, Ali
(1964) recorded 187 species in the Periyar region, highlighting the diverse avifauna present. The
Thettekad Wildlife Sanctuary survey, conducted by Dasgupta, Roy, and Datta (2002),
identified 167 species, showcasing the sanctuary's role in bird conservation efforts. Local studies,
such as those by Bobby Jose and Zacharias, conducted in the University campus of Kozhikode, and
the
survey at Chittor College, Palakkad, provide insights into the avian diversity within urban and semi-
urban landscapes. Rodrigues and Krishna's study in Paivalike Grama Panchayat, Kasargod
district, reported 154 species, emphasizing the need for conservation measures in rural areas.
Further
studies by Raju in Thiruvananthapuram's residential areas and Kumar along the Bharathapuzha
River Basin reveal the importance of understanding bird diversity in varied habitats. Jayson's
research on foraging ecology in Kole Wetlands and Thomas and Ajith's investigation at Vellayani
Lake underline the significance of wetland ecosystems for avian biodiversity.Panigrahi and Jins'
study in the Agasthyamalai Hills and Jayson's work in the Mangalavanam Mangroves provide
valuable insights into bird diversity in unique habitats, emphasizing the need for targeted
conservation efforts in these ecologically sensitive areas.These diverse studies collectively
underscore the importance of continued research and conservation
initiatives to safeguard Kerala's avian biodiversity and its associated ecosystems.
AIM

To comprehensively document the bird species diversity within Polassery Ward Number 24,
including their distribution, abundance, and habitat preferences, to contribute to local biodiversity
conservation efforts and enhance community awareness and engagement in avian conservation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
MAP

The study was conducted in Polassery Ward 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.
Direct Observation: Direct observation was the primary method employed to document bird
species within the study area. Observations were conducted by walking slowly through the
habitat, allowing for thorough scanning of the environment for bird activity. Special attention was
given to canopy species, and slow walking proved effective in detecting these birds. Techniques
such as frequent stops and listening for movements, such as rustling of leaves, were utilized to
enhance bird detection.

Total Count Method: The total count method was employed to enumerate bird species within
specific areas of interest. Upon detecting a bird, efforts were made to identify the species and record it
in the data collection sheet. Timing of Visits: 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. By employing these methods, a
comprehensive assessment of bird species diversity within Polassery Ward Number 24 was
achieved, contributing valuable insights to local biodiversity conservation efforts.
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
During the study, a total of 28 avian species belonging to 21 families were recorded. The families
observed in the study area included Corvidae,
Recurvirostridae, Meropidae, Pycnonotidae, Scolopacidae, Passeridae, Columbidae, Ardeinae,
Cuculidae, Dicruridae, Sturnidae, Alcedinidae, Muscicapidae, Leiothrichidae, Cisticolidae,
Megalaimidae, Picidae, Psittaculidae, Nectariniidae, Phalacrocoracidae, and Rallidae. The
Corvidae family recorded the highest number of species (27), including Indian house crows, jungle
crows, Rufous Treepies, and others includes common and white-throated kingfishers, greater
coucals, Asian Koels, Indian pond herons, and great egrets from other families. The total bird
species identified were confined to eight orders: Passeriformes,
Charadriiformes, Coraciiformes, Columbiformes, Pelecaniformes,
Cuculiformes, Piciformes, and Psittaciformes. A significant number of observations belonged to
the order Passeriformes.
Fig 1. OVERALL DISTRIBUTION OF BIRDS

Order of birds

passeriformes charadriiformes coraciiformes columbiformes pelecaniformes

cuculiformes piciformes psittaciformes siliformes gruiformes
SITE 1 (open areas of ward 24)
TABLE -1
S.NO COMMON NAME FAMILY NO. OF CONSERVATIVE
INDIVIDUALS STATUS
OBSERVED
1 House crow Corvidae 20 LC
2 Asian green bee eater Meropidae 2 LC
3 Red whiskered bulbul Pycnonotidae 1 LC
4 Common snipe Scolopacidae 3 LC
5 House sparrow Passeridae 4 LC
6 Rock pigeon Columbidae 5 LC
7 Cattle egret Ardeinae 2 LC
8 Greater coucal Cuculidae 4 LC
9 Greater racket tailed Dicruridae 2 LC
drongo
10 Common myna Sturnidae 4 LC
11 Common kingfisher Alcedinidae 2 LC
12 White throated Alcedinidae 3 LC
kingfisher
13 Oriental magpie robin Muscicapidae 1 LC
14 Rufus treepie Corvidae 2 LC
15 Jungle babbler Leiothrichidae 2 LC
16 Tailor bird Cisticolidae 3 LC
17 White cheeked barbet Megalaimidae 1 LC
18 Black rumped flame Picidae 2 LC
back
19 Black drongo Dicruridae 2 LC
20 Asian koel Cuculidae 1 LC
21 Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittaculidae 2 LC
22 Lotens sunbird nectariniidae 2 LC
23 Indian jungle crow Corvidae 5 LC

[LC-Least concerned]
SITE 2 (River side of kolothumkadavu fish market)
TABLE -2
S.NO COMMON FAMILY NO. OF CONSERVATIVE
NAME INDIVIDUALS STATUS
OBSERVED
1 Little cormorant phalacrocoracidae 6 LC
2 White breasted Rallidae 4 LC
waterhen
3 Indian pond heron Ardeidae 3 LC
4 Great egret Ardeidae 1 LC
5 Black winged stilt Recurvirostridae 3 LC

[LC-Least concerned]

White throated kingfisher, crows, Common kingfisher are common in both sites (site 1 C

site 2) The birds in site 2 were all exclusive to that site and were not seen in site 1.
A comparative study of two sites [SITE 1&SITE 2]

Here's a comparative study between Site 1 (common open areas) and Site 2 (riverside of
Kolothumkadavu Fish Market) regarding bird diversity:

Number of Species Observed:

Site 1: 23 species
Site 2: 5 species Dominant
Families:
Site 1: Corvidae (House crow, Rufus treepie, Indian jungle crow), Alcedinidae (Common
kingfisher, White throated kingfisher), Cuculidae (Greater coucal, Asian Koel), among others.
Site 2: Ardeidae (Little cormorant, Indian pond heron, Great egret), Rallidae (White breasted
waterhen).
Individuals Observed:
Site 1: Higher number of individuals observed overall due to a greater variety of species.
Site 2: Fewer individuals observed but potentially higher concentrations of certain species.
Conservation Status:
Both sites predominantly host species categorized as "Least Concern" (LC), indicating a relatively
stable population status.
Habitat Preference:
Site 1: Common open areas likely attract a diverse range of bird species, including both resident and
migratory species.
Site 2: The riverside habitat may be more specialized, attracting species adapted to aquatic
environments or wetlands.
Presence of Water:
Site 1: No direct mention of water bodies, suggesting a predominantly terrestrial habitat.
Site 2: Located by the riverside, indicating a proximity to water bodies, which may influence the bird
species present.
Ecological Role:
Site 1: Presence of species like House crow, Rock pigeon, and House sparrow, which are often
associated with human settlements and can adapt well to urban environments. House crows,
commonly found in urban areas, serve as scavengers by consuming organic waste, potentially
contributing to urban cleanliness. They also inadvertently aid in seed dispersal and help control
pest populations by preying on
insects, small mammals, and bird eggs. Rock pigeons, ubiquitous in urban environments,
contribute to seed dispersal through their diet of seeds and grains. Changes in their population or
behaviour can indicate shifts in environmental quality, and they hold cultural significance in
various societies. House sparrows, adaptable to
human-altered landscapes play a role in insect control by preying on agricultural pests. Their
nesting activities can influence local insect populations and provide nesting opportunities for
other bird species.
Site 2: Presence of waterfowl species like little cormorant and Indian pond heron suggests
the importance of aquatic ecosystems in supporting bird diversity. Little Cormorants and
Indian Pond Herons perform essential ecological functions. Little
Cormorants, proficient in catching fish, help regulate fish populations, indicate water quality, and aid
in nutrient cycling through their nesting and roosting activities.
Additionally, they facilitate seed dispersal, influencing the diversity of wetland flora and fauna.
Indian Pond Herons, opportunistic feeders, manage insect populations, control aquatic organisms,
and serve as environmental indicators, reflecting changes in
wetland health. Their nesting colonies contribute to habitat creation, fostering biodiversity in
wetland habitats.
Species Richness and Diversity:
Site 1: Higher species richness and diversity due to a larger number of species observed.
Site 2: Lower species richness but potentially higher diversity within the limited range of observed
species.
In summary, Site 1 (common open areas) exhibits greater species richness and diversity, likely
due to its varied habitat types and proximity to urban environments, while Site 2 (riverside habitat)
showcases a specialized bird community adapted to
aquatic ecosystems. Both sites play important roles in supporting bird diversity within the local
area.
 Total number of species comparison of both sites

Number of species

0 5 10 15 20 25

SITE 2 SITE 1
 House Crow
• Scientific Name: Corvus splendens

• Family: Corvidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found in urban and suburban areas

across South Asia, the Middle East, and parts of East Asia.
• Identification: Medium-sized bird with black plumage, a slightly glossy
appearance, and a distinctive cawing call.
• Habitat: Urban and suburban areas, often near human settlements, including cities,
towns, and villages.
 Black-winged Stilt
• Scientific Name: Himantopus himantopus
• Family: Recurvirostridae
• Order: Charadriiformes
• Distribution: Widespread across much of the world, including
Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
• Identification: Long-legged wader with black and white plumage, long
thin bill, and distinctive red legs.
• Habitat: Frequents shallow freshwater and saltwater habitats such as
marshes, mudflats, lakeshores, and estuaries.
 Asian Green Bee-eater
• Scientific Name: Merops orientalis

• Family: Meropidae

• Order: Coraciiformes

• Distribution: Found across much of South and Southeast Asia, including

India, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, and parts of China.
• Identification: Vibrant green plumage with a slender body, long curved bill, and
distinctive aerial feeding behaviour.
• Habitat: Open country, including grasslands,
scrublands, agricultural areas, and forest edges.
 Red-whiskered Bulbul
• Scientific Name: Pycnonotus jocosus

• Family: Pycnonotidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Native to South Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and parts of
Southeast Asia.
• Identification: Small passerine bird with a distinctive red patch behind the eye
and a melodious song.
• Habitat: Varied habitats including gardens, parks, woodlands, and urban
areas.
 Common Snipe
• Scientific Name: Gallinago gallinago

• Family: Scolopacidae

• Order: Charadriiformes

• Distribution: Found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and parts of North America.
• Identification: Medium-sized wading bird with cryptic plumage, long bill, and
distinctive zigzagging flight pattern.
• Habitat: Wetlands such as marshes, bogs, and flooded fields.
 House Sparrow
• Scientific Name: Passer domesticus

• Family: Passeridae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Originally native to Europe and Asia, now widely distributed across
the world due to human introduction.
• Identification: Small bird with brown and gray plumage, distinctive black bib on the
throat of males.
• Habitat: Urban and suburban areas, often found near human habitation such as
houses, barns, and parks.
 Rock Pigeon
• Scientific Name: Columba livia

• Family: Columbidae

• Order: Columbiformes

• Distribution: Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia, now found globally
due to human introduction.
• Identification: Medium-sized bird with a stout body, gray plumage, and
characteristic cooing call.
• Habitat: Urban and rural areas, often roosting on buildings and cliffs.
 Cattle Egret
• Scientific Name: Bubulcus ibis

• Family: Ardeidae

• Order: Pelecaniformes

• Distribution: Found in temperate and tropical regions worldwide, often

associated with livestock.
• Identification: Medium-sized egret with white plumage, yellow bill, and breeding adults
have orange plumes on the head and neck.
• Habitat: Fields, grasslands, marshes, and agricultural areas, often seen foraging near cattle
and other large mammals.
 Greater Coucal
• Scientific Name: Centropus sinensis

• Family: Cuculidae

• Order: Cuculiformes

• Distribution: Found across South and Southeast Asia, including the Indian
subcontinent and Southeast Asian countries.
• Identification: Large, crow-like bird with black plumage, a long tail, and reddish-
brown wings.
• Habitat: Dense vegetation such as forests, scrublands, and grasslands.
 Greater Racket-tailed Drongo
• Scientific Name: Dicrurus paradiseus

• Family: Dicruridae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found in South and Southeast Asia,

including the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of China.
• Identification: Medium-sized bird with black plumage, long forked tail with
distinctive racket-shaped tips, and red eyes.
• Habitat: Various forested habitats including tropical
rainforests, deciduous forests, and wooded areas near water bodies.
 Common Myna
• Scientific Name: Acridotheres tristis

• Family: Sturnidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Native to South Asia, now introduced to many other parts of the
world, including Africa,
Australia, and the Pacific islands.

• Identification: Medium-sized bird with brown plumage, a black head, yellow eye
patch, and white wing
patches.

• Habitat: Urban and suburban areas, parks, gardens, and agricultural land.
 Common Kingfisher
• Scientific Name: Alcedo atthis

• Family: Alcedinidae

• Order: Coraciiformes

• Distribution: Found across Europe, Asia, and North Africa.

• Identification: Small, brightly coloured bird with
iridescent blue and orange plumage, short tail, and long pointed bill.
• Habitat: Rivers, streams, lakeshores, ponds, and other freshwater habitats with clear
water and suitable
perches for hunting.
 White-throated Kingfisher
• Scientific Name: Halcyon smyrnensis

• Family: Alcedinidae

• Order: Coraciiformes

• Distribution: Found across South Asia, the Middle East, and parts of Southeast
Asia.
• Identification: Medium-sized kingfisher with blue and rufous plumage, white
throat, and large bill.
• Habitat: Varied habitats including open country, farmland, wetlands, and
mangroves.
 Oriental Magpie-Robin
• Scientific Name: Copsychus saularis

• Family: Muscicapidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Native to South and Southeast Asia,

including the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of China.
• Identification: Small passerine bird with black and white plumage, long tail,
and prominent white wing patches.
• Habitat: Varied habitats including gardens, parks, forests, and urban areas.
 Rufous Treepie
• Scientific Name: Dendrocitta vagabunda

• Family: Corvidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia.
• Identification: Medium-sized bird with black, gray, and rufous plumage, long tail,
and noisy calls.
• Habitat: Woodlands, forests, gardens, and urban areas.
 Jungle Babbler
• Scientific Name: Turdoides striata

• Family: Leiothrichidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Native to the Indian subcontinent.

• Identification: Small, brown bird with a long tail, white throat, and distinctive
sociable behaviour.
• Habitat: Forests, scrublands, gardens, and parks.
 Tailorbird
• Scientific Name: Orthotomus sutorius

• Family: Cisticolidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found across South and Southeast Asia.

• Identification: Small, warbler-like bird with greenish- brown plumage, long tail,
and distinctive upright tail posture.
• Habitat: Shrubby habitats including woodlands, scrublands, gardens,
and parks.
 White-cheeked Barbet
• Scientific Name: Psilopogon viridis

• Family: Megalaimidae

• Order: Piciformes

• Distribution: Found in South Asia, including the Indian subcontinent.

• Identification: Medium-sized bird with green plumage, red forehead, and white
cheeks.
• Habitat: Woodlands, forests, gardens, and urban areas.
 Black-rumped Flameback
• Scientific Name: Dinopium benghalense

• Family: Picidae

• Order: Piciformes

• Distribution: Found across South Asia, including the Indian subcontinent.

• Identification: Medium-sized woodpecker with black and yellow plumage,
white rump, and distinctive drumming sounds.
• Habitat: Woodlands, forests, and wooded areas with suitable trees for foraging
and nesting.
 Black Drongo
• Scientific Name: Dicrurus macrocercus

• Family: Dicruridae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found across much of Asia, including the Indian subcontinent and
Southeast Asia.
• Identification: Medium-sized bird with glossy black plumage, forked tail, and
aggressive behaviour.
• Habitat: Varied habitats including woodlands, open country, and urban areas.
 Asian Koel
• Scientific Name: Eudynamys scolopaceus

• Family: Cuculidae

• Order: Cuculiformes

• Distribution: Found across South and Southeast Asia.

• Identification: Medium-sized cuckoo with glossy black plumage in males and

brown plumage in females, striking red eyes, and long tail.
• Habitat: Woodlands, forests, gardens, and urban areas.
 Rose-ringed Parakeet
• Scientific Name: Psittacula krameri

• Family: Psittacidae

• Order: Psittaciformes

• Distribution: Found across South Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe and the Middle
East.
• Identification: Medium-sized parakeet with green plumage, rose-coloured collar on males,
and long tail.
• Habitat: Varied habitats including forests, woodlands, urban areas, and agricultural land
 Loten's Sunbird
• Scientific Name: Cinnyris lotenius

• Family: Nectariniidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found in South Asia, including the Indian subcontinent.

• Identification: Small bird with metallic green and purple plumage in males,
duller green plumage in females, and long curved bill.
• Habitat: Gardens, parks, scrublands, and forest edges.
 Indian Jungle Crow
• Scientific Name: Corvus culminatus

• Family: Corvidae

• Order: Passeriformes

• Distribution: Found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia.
• Identification: Medium-sized crow with all-black plumage and a strong,
hooked bill.
• Habitat: Varied habitats including forests, woodlands, urban areas, and
agricultural land.
 Little Cormorant
• Scientific Name: Microcarbo niger

• Family: Phalacrocoracidae

• Order: Suliformes

• Distribution: Found across South and Southeast Asia.

• Identification: Small cormorant with black plumage, long neck, and hooked
bill.
• Habitat: Lakes, rivers, ponds, and other freshwater habitats.
 White-breasted Waterhen
• Scientific Name: Amaurornis phoenicurus

• Family: Rallidae

• Order: Gruiformes

• Distribution: Found across South and Southeast Asia.

• Identification: Medium-sized bird with brown and white plumage, white breast, and
long legs.
• Habitat: Marshes, wetlands, rice paddies, and other freshwater habitats.
 Indian Pond Heron
• Scientific Name: Ardeola grayii

• Family: Ardeidae

• Order: Pelecaniformes

• Distribution: Found across South Asia and parts of Southeast Asia.

• Identification: Small heron with gray and white plumage, yellow legs, and
a black bill in breeding plumage.
• Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, ponds, and rice paddies.
 Great Egret
• Scientific Name: Ardea alba

• Family: Ardeidae

• Order: Pelecaniformes

• Distribution: Found across much of the world,

including Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Australia.
• Identification: Large egret with white plumage, long neck, yellow bill, and black
legs.
• Habitat: Wetlands, marshes, lakeshores, and estuaries.
 CONCLUSION
During the study conducted in Polassery Ward Number 24, a total of 28 avian species belonging
to 21 families were observed across two 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 families observed in the study area encompassed a wide range, including Corvidae,
Recurvirostridae, Meropidae, Pycnonotidae, Scolopacidae, Passeridae, Columbidae, Ardeinae,
Cuculidae, Dicruridae, Sturnidae, Alcedinidae, Muscicapidae, Leiothrichidae, Cisticolidae,
Megalaimidae, Picidae, Psittaculidae,
Nectariniidae, Phalacrocoracidae, and Rallidae. Notably, the Corvidae family exhibited the highest
species richness 27 species.

The avian species identified were distributed across eight orders: Passeriformes,
Charadriiformes, Coraciiformes, Columbiformes, Pelecaniformes, Cuculiformes, Piciformes, and
Psittaciformes. Among these orders, Passeriformes stood out with the highest number of
occurrences, totalling eight species.
Through the Bird Diversity Assessment conducted in two habitats of Polassery, Vaikom, a
comprehensive understanding of the avian population within the region has been achieved. The
data collected from the observations provide valuable insights into the bird species composition,
abundance, and distribution in these habitats.

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
fewer species 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 river side of the Kolothumkadavu
Fish Market. This
difference in habitat types and environmental factors may contribute to the variations observed in
bird species composition between the two sites.

The assessment highlights the importance of conducting detailed studies on bird diversity to
better understand the ecological dynamics and conservation needs of local habitats. By
documenting and monitoring bird populations, efforts can be made to conserve and manage these
habitats effectively, ensuring the long-term survival of avian species in Polassery, Vaikom, and
beyond.
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