Ecology and Conservation of the Spot-Billed Pelican Pelecanus Philippensis in Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Wetlands are the important bird h a habitats and birds use them as migratory resorts or for breeding, feeding and roosting. Birds are one of the best indicators of the s tatus of a wetland. Examining the environmental correlates of species distribution and life history traits is one of the best protocols to assess t he indicator properties of target species groups. The Spot · billed Pelican is one of the near threatened species found in India. The s tatus and colony size of the Spot-billed Pelican were studied in Andhra Pradesh . Nest surveys were carried out in Uppalapadu, Ramachandra palayam, Nela pattu and Telineelapuram. Birdcount and habitat use studies were done at Kolleru, Naupada Swamp and Kakara pally Creek, and Nelapattu, the three foraging sites. Recent population trends indicate increasing breeding population of the Spot-billed Pelican. To understand the habitat requirements and factors determining habitat selection, evaluation of breeding performance, distribution of the colony and adaptations were studied