Vol. 16 No. 5 (2001): May
Paper

Structure, composition and conservation of birds in Mangalavanam Mangroves, Cochin, Kerala

Published 2001-05-21

Abstract

Birds of Mangalavanam mangroves were studied from May 1998 to May 1999, based on observational methods.  Forty-one species of birds were recorded representing 25 families.  The most common bird species found at Mangalavanam were Little Cormorant (Phalacrocorax niger) and Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax). Highest species richness of birds was found in the months of May and July (18 species).  Nesting of Little Cormorant and Black-crowned Night Heron was observed from February to July.  Though the area is an ideal roosting site for Little Cormorant and Black-crowned Night Heron, observations during the 1998 and 1999 monsoons revealed high mortalities.  House Crow was the main predator of the eggs and nestlings of other bird species.  The major factors, which are detrimental to the ecosystem, are 1.  Proposal to lease part of the land to a Trust, 2.  Parking of oil tankers on the Salim Ali Road, 3.  Dumping of waste in the lake, 4. Air pollution due to the unloading of cement, 5. Encroachment of puramboke land on the eastern side, 6.  Uncontrolled growth of weeds in the lake.  Recommendations for better management of the Mangalavanam mangroves have been provided.