Present status and diversity of avian fauna in Purbasthali bird sanctuary, West Bengal, India

Birds play a crucial role in many food webs of aquatic ecosystem and the birds are known as good ‘bio-indicators’ as they are very sensitive to minor environmental changes. The present study was carried out in Purbasthali bird sanctuary of West Bengal (India) and its surroundings from January 2016 to December 2016 to explore the current status and diversity of avian fauna. The point count and line transect methods were implemented in bird counting. A total of 86 species of birds belonging to 31 families were recorded from the study area. Anatidae and Ardeidae were the dominant families with highest relative diversity. Residential status, IUCN Red list status and Relative abundance of bird species were also considered. Different diversity indices were also calculated. Purbasthali bird sanctuary supports a huge amount of bird diversity. So continuous monitoring of avian fauna and health condition of the ecosystem by local or state levels on taking integrated management programs will helpful to maintain a sustainable development of the habitat.