Bird species diversity in relation with indigenous tree species for sustainable tourism development Urhonigbe Forest Reserve Edo state Nigeria

Abstract

This research investigation focused on exploring the diversity of bird species concerning indigenous tree species within the Urhonigbe Forest Reserve in Edo State, Nigeria, to promote sustainable tourism development. The primary objective of the study was to ascertain the correlation between bird community composition, species richness, evenness, diversity, and the presence of indigenous trees, thereby contributing to sustainable tourism efforts. The research was conducted within the Urhonigbe forest reserve, situated between longitudes 6°05'38" and 6°06'45"E, and latitudes 5°57'59" and 5°59'31"N, within Edo State. The study area was divided into two distinct parts: secondary forest and undisturbed forest compartments. The secondary forest area underwent enrichment with exotic timber trees. Data collection took place during two seasons of the year, namely the wet and dry seasons, spanning from January to March and June to September 2023. The diversity and abundance of bird species on six selected indigenous trees in the study area were assessed using the point count method. A total of 24 point counts were established, with 12 in each compartment. The chosen trees included Albizia zygia, Dialium guineense, Ficus exasperata, Spondias mombin, Vitex donania, and Parkia biglobosa. The findings revealed a diversity index of ninety-five (95) and an abundance of two hundred and seventy-two (272) bird species recorded. Among these, the order Passeriformes exhibited the highest bird species diversity, with values of 14.83 and 12.25 recorded in the two compartments. Notably, the fruit trees Ficus exasperata displayed the highest bird species diversity at 14.83, followed by Dialium guineense at 11.6, respectively. Additionally, the analysis of feeding guilds indicated that frugivores, omnivores, and insectivores displayed the highest bird species diversity in the study area.