Abstract:

【Objective】 This study analyzed differences in bird diversity among habitats and elevations, explored the characteristics of birds’ spatial distribution in the Xiaobaicaoling Mountain area, and provided basic information for the bird resource development and protection measures in this area.【Method】 A complete annual investigation was carried out by line transect method on bird resources in Xiaobaicaoling Mountain, Yunnan Province. The spatial distribution was analyzed by calculating the birds diversity index of each habitat and altitude sections.【Result】 In total, 122 species of bird belonging to 43 families and 10 orders were recorded, of which 17 species were listed as National Ⅱ Protected Animals. There were 110 residents (90.16%), 5 summer visitors (4.10%), 6 winter visitors (4.92%) and 1 passage migrant (0.82%). Among the 115 species of breeding birds (residents and summer visitors), Oriental elements, accounting for 50.43%, were the most common species. Bird richness was highest in summer (112 species), followed by spring (104), autumn (79) and winter (76). The highest G-F index occurred in spring (0.772), and the lowest G-F index occurred winter (0.662). In terms of 3 habitat types, the forest had the highest bird richness (117 species) and the highest G-F index (0.739), while the farmland had the lowest bird richness index (48 species) and lowest G-F index (0.549). Species richness of birds peaked between ≥ 2 100~2 600 m elevation, showing a mid-elevational peak pattern.【Conclusion】 The distribution of birds at a vertical altitude and their preferences for a habitat selection reflect their comprehensive demand for various environmental factors. The forest land with high spatial heterogeneity attracts a large number of birds because of its abundant food resources and concealment conditions. However, due to the influence of the altitude, it is not that the wider the forest area, the higher the diversity of birds. To better protect bird resources, the follow-up studies should combine the time factor to explore spatial and temporal patterns of bird distribution and the most relevant environmental factors.

Key words: bird diversity, stratified sampling, spatial distribution, interaction, Xiaobaicaoling Mountain, Chuxiong in Yunnan Province