Michael Siemens P. Uy (March 2013)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
This study aimed to identify existing bird species and describe the diversity, evenness and similarity of the bird community in the riparian areas of the adjacent barangays, Balabago, Jaro and Hinactacan, Lapaz Iloilo City for the span of May 12 to June 17, 2012. A 500 m transect for each area was surveyed for 15 non-consecutive days. For identification two techniques were employed; Visually identifying through distinct physical characteristics using the field guides; A Photographic Guide To The Birds of The Philippines and A pocket Guide to The Philippine Birds and identification through distinct sound/song emitted. Richness was at 26 and 19 species respectively. Collectively 33 species were recorded comprised by four endemics, eight migrants and 21 residents. The diversity indices were determined using two approach; Shannon-Weiner’s (2.25 and 2.85 respectively) and Simpson’s (0.85 and 0.92 respectively). Evenness of composition using Pielou’s Evenness Index yielded 0.40 and 0.49 respectively. Similarity of both areas using Sorensen’s Index was at 0.89. The study found a diverse avian community in both areas albeit with an uneven composition or imbalance between populations of different species. Although the evenness was low, the high species richness brought the diversity at a higher value (diversity is integration of richness and evenness). As supported by other studies, high diversity also means high complexity in terms of vegetation in both areas which leads to support for other organisms in the area. Diversity between two areas which leads to support for other organisms in the area. Diversity between two areas was compared using a modified t-test developed by K. Hutcheson (1970) with Brgy. Hinactacan having a significantly higher diversity compared to Brgy. Balabago.