Impact of Foraging Patterns and Habitat Utilisation upon Water Bird Diversity in Gaya District, Bihar, India
Divya Bharti
Department of Zoology, J. J. College, Gaya, Bihar 824234, India.
Acharya Shanker
Department of Zoology, J. J. College, Gaya, Bihar 824234, India.
Mohammad Danish Masroor *
P. G. Department of Zoology, Magadh University, Bodhgaya, Bihar, 822434, India.
Siddhnath Prasad Yadav Deen
P. G. Department of Zoology, Magadh University, Bodhgaya, Bihar, 822434, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The wetlands of Gaya represent diverse aquatic ecosystems ranging from perennial water bodies to seasonal marshes, offering a variety of microhabitats that support numerous waterbird species. Understanding habitat utilisation patterns is crucial not only for ecological knowledge but also for identifying critical habitats that require protection in the face of increasing anthropogenic pressures. The current research offers detailed information on the habitat classification, site preferences, behavioural adaptations, nesting requirements, and the influence of environmental factors on habitat selection among waterbird communities in the study area using resource selection model and Manly's resource selection ratios.
Keywords: Waterbird, Gaya, habitat utilisation, foraging pattern