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Bird diversity in northern Myanmar and conservation implications
Ming-Xia Zhang1,2, Myint Kyaw3, Guo-Gang Li1,2
1Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yezin Nay Pyi Taw 05282, Myanmar.
Zoological Research
|November 29, 2017
Summary
Bird surveys in Myanmar revealed 319 species, adding two new to the region. Lower elevations showed higher bird diversity, suggesting protected areas need expansion to conserve critical habitats.
Area of Science:
- Ornithology
- Biodiversity research
- Conservation science
Background:
- Myanmar's avifauna remains incompletely documented, particularly in remote northern regions.
- Previous bird surveys in the Putao area were limited in scope and duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document bird species richness and distribution in the Putao area of northern Myanmar.
- To identify avian conservation priorities and inform protected area management.
Main Methods:
- Conducted four bird biodiversity surveys between 2015 and 2017.
- Supplemented survey data with anecdotal information gathered from 2012 to 2015.
- Analyzed species richness in relation to elevation.
Main Results:
- Recorded a total of 319 bird species, including two species (Arborophila mandellii and Lanius sphenocercus) new to Myanmar.
- Identified Bulbuls (Pycnonotidae), babblers (Timaliidae), pigeons and doves (Columbidae), and pheasants and partridges (Phasianidae) as the most abundant bird families.
- Observed significantly higher bird species richness below 1,500 meters above sea level compared to higher elevations.
Conclusions:
- The Putao area harbors significant bird biodiversity, including species previously unrecorded in Myanmar.
- Lower elevation habitats are critical for maintaining high bird species richness in the region.
- Current protected areas require expansion to lower elevations to address conservation gaps and effectively protect avian biodiversity.
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