Avifaunal Diversity in and Around Sakharwahi Lake near Chandrapur, Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The present study was conducted on the avian diversity in and around Sakharwahi Lake in Chandrapur District (M.S.) India, from October 2022 to September 2023. During the study period, different bird species were observed, a checklist was prepared, and data was analysed. During the study, a total of 43 species of birds belonging to 15 different orders and 29 families were recorded. The different factors are responsible for the diversity of birds, but the availability of preferred food and suitable environmental conditions are important for them.

Introduction

Birds are found across all continents and are widely regarded as important environmental indicators. They often migrate based on seasons and food availability. In India, particularly in Maharashtra, avian diversity has been extensively studied, with growing concern over its decline due to habitat destruction, urbanization, and industrialization.

The study focuses on Sakharwahi Lake, located near Chandrapur city, Maharashtra. This lake supports agriculture and fishing but is affected by nearby mining and urban development, posing risks to local flora and fauna.

Study Details:

• Location: Sakharwahi village, 18 km from Chandrapur.

• Coordinates: 20.0239030°N, 79.1775120°E.

• Duration: February 2022 – April 2023.

• Methods: Bird surveys were conducted using binoculars and photography during morning and evening hours. Identification was based on standard bird guides.

Results:

• Total species recorded: 43 bird species

• Orders covered: 15

• Families covered: 29

• Habitat types:

  • R (Resident): 37 species

  • RM (Resident-Migrant): 5 species

  • M (Migratory): 1 species

• Dominant Order: Passeriformes (13 species)

• Other notable orders: Columbiformes, Charadriiformes, Coraciiformes, Pelecaniformes.

Discussion:

Earlier studies in the Chandrapur region (Khinchi 2009, Chilke 2012, Harney & Bhute 2014, Puppalwar & Telkhade 2017) also observed significant avian diversity in nearby lakes, with dominant orders like Passeriformes. These studies indicate that bird diversity is threatened by:

• Urban expansion

• Pollution

• Loss of vegetation and nesting habitats

Sakharwahi Lake, with its year-round water availability, submerged vegetation, and tree cover, provides a favorable environment for birds. However, continued industrial and anthropogenic pressure may endanger its ecological value in the future.

Conclusion

The diversity of birds in and around Sakharvahi lake is due to availablity of ample of food, water, different vegetations which provide the nesting and breeding place, but compare other lakes in Chandrapur area diversity of birds is less which is due to the Anthropogenic activities and pollution .

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Misar S. D., Chavhan P R. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.