Abundance and diversity of wild birds species in the Buffe Zone of Old Oyo National Park, Nigeria

Abstract

The study estimated the relative abundance and diversity of wild birds’ populations in the buffer zone of Old Oyo National Park. Point count method was used to estimate wild birds’ species abundance in both wet and dry seasons. Ecological data on wild birds’ resources were subjected to diversity indices analysis using PAleontological STatistics (PAST). The results showed that 21 families representing 30 species of birds were recorded in wet and dry seasons. In Ogun-Tede range, Tockus nasatus (6.70±1.65)/km2 had the highest relative  abundance in both wet and dry seasons respectively. While in Marguba range, Motacilla flava (4.14±1.02)/km2 had the highest relative abundance in both wet and dry seasons. The diversity indices for wild birds were higher (D=0.95; H=3.2) in wet season. Ecosystem values of wild birds and their roles in ecological processes would be lost if we do not take seriously the effective conservation and management of the study area.