https://doi.org/10.51514/JSTR.7.1.2025.31-44
Himanshi Sagar and Jinesh Kumar Singh
ABSTRACT
The Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia), a charismatic wading bird of wetland habitats, displays complex and adaptive behavioural patterns essential to its survival and reproductive success. This study examines the behavioural ecology of the species at Soor Sarovar Bird Sanctuary (SSBS), Agra, from 2021 to 2023. Using focal animal and scan sampling techniques, a comprehensive ethogram was developed to monitor ten categories of behaviours, including locomotion, maintenance, feeding, reproductive activities, and social interactions. Observations were conducted between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, with behaviours recorded at 30- minute intervals. Results revealed seasonal variation in activity budgets, with locomotion and foraging peaking during low water periods, suggesting behavioral plasticity in response to environmental cues. Reproductive behaviours, including courtship and nesting, were concentrated in pre-winter periods, reflecting synchronization with optimal ecological conditions. Agonistic and interspecific interactions highlighted the Spoonbill’s competitive yet socially cohesive nature within mixed-species assemblages. Notably, the species demonstrated versatile feeding strategies across microhabitats, aided by both tactile and visual foraging techniques. The Spoonbill’s ability to adapt its behaviours to fluctuating wetland conditions illustrates its ecological resilience.
Compared to other sympatric waders, it exhibited a broader behavioural repertoire, likely conferring a competitive advantage in dynamic habitats. This study underscores the importance of sustained behavioural monitoring for informing conservation strategies, especially in light of anthropogenic pressures and habitat modifications at SSBS. The findings contribute valuable insight into the adaptive strategies of P. leucorodia, reinforcing the significance of wetland conservation for sustaining avian biodiversity.
Keywords: Wetland, behaviour, Environmental, anthropogenic, conservation etc.
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