Assessment Of Species Diversity And Relative Abundance Of Estrildid Finches Within Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria:- Onyemaechi, Caleb O

ABSTRACT

This study was undertaken to assess the diversity and relative abundance ofEstrildid finches within Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU), Abia state, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to identify the finches in the study area, determine their relative abundance and food preferences. Data were collected based on field survey and focal observation (point counts) and focused on identification ofthe bird species in the study area, and the grass species fed upon. Results show that a total number of five (5) different species of Estrildid finches were present in the study area. The Bronze mannikins (Spermestes cucullatus) with a percentage of 42 were the most abundant, followed by Orange cheeked waxbill (Estrilda melpoda) with 30%. Bar-breasted firefinch (Lagonosticla rufopicta), 8% and Grey-headed nigrita (Nigrita canicapillus), 9% were the least abundant. The Black and white mannikin had a percentage abundance value of 1 1%. Of the six species encountered, Grey Headed Nigrita (Nigrita canicapillus) was considered CommonUncommon in abundance. This may be due to the fact that it is usually skulking and is often heard and not seen. The others were Common to Fairly Common. MOUAU has shown to be a very important habitat for the survival of Estrildid finches. Efforts should be made to maintain the farmlands and fields where these grasses abound in order to support their populations. Conservation ofthe existing habitats should remain a priority