Ecological Studies of Marabou Stork (Leptoptilos Crumeniferus) Around Hawassa Lake, Southern Ethiopia.
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Date
2018-06-02
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
A study was carried out around Lake Hawassa, covering both wet and dry
seasons in 2017/18, to investigate the population structure, habitat association,
feeding ecology and reproductive patterns of the Marabou stork (leptoptilos
crumeniferus). Sample sites were designed based on the vegetation type and area
cover. Point count and nest monitoring method were used on the three selected
sites. Direct observation techniques were also used to collect necessary
information. A total of 289 and 366 Marabou storks were counted during the dry
and wet seasons, respectively. Birds counted during the dry and wet season,
were significantly different (p<0.05). Lake shore was highly preferred for
feeding. They were observed to feed on food items such as fish scraps (35%),
carrion (27%), insects (13%), worm (12%) and frog (11%), with variations from
season to season. Their breeding nests were mostly in the town and on the top of
Acacia tortilis and Acacia nilotica trees. On average, the female laid 3 eggs and
both parents share in guarding and incubating eggs for 29-31 days. Marabou take
long period of 124 days from hatching to fledging, with first flights out of nest
during 90-110 days. The chicks show variation in physical status at different
days. Habitat degradation in connection with recreation area and extreme
exploitation of fishing activities are the main threats to the survival of Marabou
storks and other wetland birds of the present study area.
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Keywords
Acacia, Hawassa, Marabou Stork, Water Birds