A Survey of Avian Fauna in Kabale Municipality, South Western Uganda
Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Advances in Research
Abstract
Collection of data on avifaunal diversity is a crucial component for monitoring the effects of habitat
changes on biodiversity. A rapid cross sectional survey to document common bird species present
in Kabale municipality was conducted over a period of 3 months. Birds were categorized into
families and the Shannon–Weaver (H') diversity index and the abundance of all the species was
calculated. A total of 1770 bird individuals consisting of 67 species, 34 families were recorded, with
an overall species diversity of 3.41. The Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum) an endangered
species and the Woolly–necked Stork (Ciconia episcopus) a vulnerable species were among the
species recorded. The relatively high diversity is probably attributed to the presence of trees on
farmland areas within the municipality. This combination seems to provide various food sources or
nesting and perching grounds for the birds. Information generated by this study will serve as a
benchmark for monitoring of changes in species diversity and composition over time. In addition, the
list of birds will be useful to residents of the area and the many ecotourists who visit Kabale town.
Description
Keywords
Kabale municipality; shannon–weaver; endangered; vulnerable; ecotourists