Diversity and Abundance of Migratory Birds in Bandalikhan Wetland in Relation to Water Fluctuations and Drought

Wetlands are one of the most unique ecosystems on earth, and their destruction is a result of direct and indirect human interactions. This study examines the abundance and diversity of birds in the Bandalikhan wetland and their relationship with water fluctuations and drought over a 10-year period (2012-2022). Bird census data was collected, and species richness and diversity indices were calculated. The changes in the water level were determined using the normalized water difference index (NDWI) and Landsat images. Rainfall, temperature, and drought index were extracted from meteorological records, and their correlation was analyzed. Results showed that common teal (Anas crecca) and mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) were the most abundant birds, and the highest values of species diversity and richness indices were obtained for the wettest year (2019). Linear regression revealed a positive and significant relationship between NDWI and the number of bird species (R2 = 0.72) and abundance (R2 = 0.74) of birds. A significant relationship was found between the drought index and the number of species (R2 = 0.62). To conserve the diversity and abundance of wetland birds, it is necessary to prevent large fluctuations in the water level, as this reduces the habitat suitability for birds.