Composition and distribution of Avifaunal diversity in the premises of the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The study assessed the variation in landscape towards the composition and distribution of avifauna in University of Kelaniya premises. Study was conducted selecting 8 habitats types as open ground, low, moderately and highly wooded using purposive sampling representing different habitats. Survey was conducted during the period of 05.30hr- 6.30hr and 17.30hr- 18.30hr time of October 2016 to December 2016 ensuring six sampling occasions at each habitat. Point counting method (15 m radius) was used. Species diversity parameters, species distribution among habitats were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis test, while Principle Component Analysis (PCA) was used to characterize the habitats with bird species. Species richness (r= 27) and species diversity (H’= 3.09) were the highest in habitat number 4 while species evenness (J= 2.24) was highest in habitat number 3. Total abundance (n=75) was recorded in habitat number 1. According to the Kruskal-Wallis statistical results, Asian brown flycatcher (Habitat 1, 3, 4, 5, 7) and White bellied drongo (Habitat 1, 4, 5, 7 and 8) were recorded as widely distributed. The second largest distribution was recorded by Black hooded oriole, Blue tailed bee-eater, Cattle egret, Feral pigeon, Brown headed barbet, Red vented bulbul, Rose ringed parakeet, within four habitats. According to the PCA, habitat 1 is categorized by open grassland birds while habitat 4 is characterized by frugivorous birds while site 5 is characterized by carnivorous birds. Comparatively, habitat 4 contributes to the highest species diversity with many flowering and fruiting trees. Recorded avifaunal community composition ensures considerable conservation value to University premises of Kelaniya.