Biodiversity Profile of Avian Fauna in an Agro-Ecosystem of Faisalabad

Abstract

The study of avian fauna in their roosting sites is crucial for determining their status and sustainability in any habitat. This research investigated the biodiversity profile of four bird species—Rose-ringed Parakeet (Psittacula krameri), House Sparrow (Passer domesticus), House Crow (Corvus splendens), and Rosy Starling (Pastor roseus)—across eight tree species categorized by diameter at breast height (DBH) in an agro-ecosystem of Faisalabad, Pakistan. Over three months (March–May 2016 and 2017), systematic observations were conducted on trees with DBH <50 cm, 50–70 cm, and >70 cm. Pooled data showed that the highest roosting occurred in the 50–70 cm DBH class (total = 424 roosts), followed by <50 cm (360) and >70 cm (299). Salmalia malabarica supported the greatest number of roosts (n = 243), while Momordica charantia had the lowest (n = 52). ANOVA revealed significant differences among tree species (F₇,₂₁ = 1.35, p = 0.039) and among bird species (F₃,₂₁ = 5.16, p = 0.008). Tukey’s HSD test showed that P. krameri (mean = 4.33) and C. splendens (mean = 3.53) were significantly more abundant than S. roseus (mean = 1.22). Results indicate that tree species and DBH are critical determinants of roosting site selection. Sustainable management of large, native trees is essential for maintaining avian biodiversity while mitigating crop damage by pest species. This study provides baseline data for integrated pest management and conservation planning in the region.

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