Diversity, Distribution and Relative Abundance of Avian Fauna in and Around Zengo Forest, East Gojjam, Ethiopia

Species composition, relative abundance and distribution of avian fauna in and around Zengo Forest was studied during September 2014 to March 2015. Data were collected using point count and line transect method during the wet and dry seasons.  A total of 42 avian species belong to 22 families were identified in the study area during the wet and dry season. Highest number of species was recorded on farmland and forest habitats during the dry and wet seasons, respectively. The lowest value of avian fauna species similarity among vegetation types during both seasons had a value of 0.15, and the highest was observed between forest and farmland of 0.37. There was no significant difference among habitats (F3 1879 = 1.70, P> 0.05). However season had an effect on avian fauna abundance in woodland habitat (χ2= 0.09, P< 0.05). The present study revealed that Zengo Forest supports diversity of avian fauna species in different types of habitats. The importance of different habitats for avian species is providing the essential supplies such as food, water and nesting. Habitat destruction, deforestation, habitat fragmentation were the main threats for avian in the study area. Therefore, awareness creation and active community participation are essential for conserving the habitats and avian fauna of the area.