Assessing the distribution of avian assemblages in the management zones of Budongo central forest

Abstract

The research project is meant for us to understand how one would prepare a thesis for a given topic of study. Globally there are over 11,000 different bird species and these have become an integral part of the human culture. Birds are warm-blooded vertebrates defined by the feathers that cover their bodies. These feathers provide insulation, reflect light for ornamental purposes and assist with flight. Their beautiful appearances and delightful songs allow people to form a deep connection with nature. The composition of bird communities can either be due to spatial or temporal factors. The main objective of the study was to assess the distribution of avian assemblages in the different management zones of BCFR in the Western Uganda. BCFR is a semi-deciduous moist tropical rain forest which covers 793km² consisting of 8 blocks found in the districts of Hoima, Buliisa and Masindi. Purposive sampling was used where the compartments chosen were N3 and B4 due to their differing habitat structures. Point count was used to obtain data where all the birds seen or heard in the forest at a given time in a specific point were noted. The study was carried out in the 5 lines/ transects for each compartment for a period of 6 months. The study will help forest managers find out the reasons why bird distribution varies in different zones. The results from the 2 compartments were compared and compartment b4 was seen to have had more bird abundance than compartment N3. On the other hand compartment N3 has more bird species diversity compared to compartment B4 thus meaning that the forest should be less disturbed for the different bird species to remain available. Hence neighbouring community should be educated on the negative impacts that occur due to their involvement in the destruction of forest which acts as habitat for birds as this may decrease the total number of bird assemblages in BCFR. Thus care has to be taken to ensure that the forest is not disturbed if we want to increase or remain with the same number of bird abundance in BCFR.