Avifaunal Diversity and Abundance in the Proposed Sarasalai Mangrove Reserve, Jaffna, Sri Lanka

Simple Summary The Sarasalai mangrove reserve has not been properly studied for its avifaunal diversity. Sarasalai is located in the northern avifaunal region in the Jaffna peninsula of Sri Lanka. The objective of this study is to assess the avifaunal diversity in the proposed Sarasalai mangrove reserve. A total of 107 avian species of 45 families were recorded during this study. The bird sightings differed among the studied sites. Greater Flamingos showed the highest abundance. A few threatened species such as the critically endangered Indian Spot-billed Duck and nine nationally threatened species were recorded in high abundance in the Sarasalai mangrove.Abstract Mangrove ecosystems are excellent habitats for migrating and resident birds. The proposed Sarasalai mangrove reserve is located in one of the richest waterbird zones in Sri Lanka. This site has never been properly studied as a single site for its avifaunal diversity. Hence, the present study aims to find avifaunal diversity in the Sarasalai mangrove. Data collection was performed from April to December 2021. Eight permanent sampling stations were demarcated along the existing roads and were visited twice a month to collect bird abundance data. A total of 107 bird species belonging to 45 families including 58 waterbird species were recorded in the present study. Bird abundance did not significantly differ among the eight studied sites. Studied sites with the availability of water and good tree cover had the highest Shannon Diversity Index. The mangrove vegetation, with tall grasses, and the high water level were significant factors for bird abundance in some sites. Monthly bird abundance showed a notable increase during the migratory months. Among the recorded bird species, Greater Flamingos showed the highest abundance. Moreover, some rare waterbirds including Indian Spot-billed Duck and Glossy Ibis were commonly recorded. Several putative threats have been recorded during this study, namely unplanned land encroachments, bird hunting, and clearing of mangroves. Although this site has a high value in providing a healthy habitat for many wetland birds, it is yet to be declared a protected area. The lack of a clear boundary and a governing body to protect this area exacerbates its protection issues. Hence, it is proposed that immediate legal actions must be taken to declare this important migratory bird area a mangrove forest reserve.

Automated summary

This study assessed the avifaunal diversity in the Sarasalai mangrove reserve and recorded 107 bird species. Greater Flamingos showed the highest abundance, while threatened species like the Indian Spot-billed Duck were also recorded in high numbers. The Sarasalai mangrove reserve has not been properly studied and protected.