SOME ASPECTS OF THE BIOLOGY OF FOUR COLUMBID SPECIES IN ZARIA, NIGERIA

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Date
1999-08
Authors
ADANG, KOMBE LUCAS
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Abstract
ABSTRACT Some aspects of the biology of four columbid species in Zaria, Nigeria were studied between the months of May 1998 and February 1999 to obtain baseline information for their management and possible domestication. The aspects examined were the food and feeding habits of wild birds using regurgitates obtained from the birds after the administration of an emetic and by direct observation of the birds as they fed in the wild. The food and feeding habits of wild birds were used to illustrate the concept of niche overlap and differentiation among the four columbid species under study, and also to determine any variation in food habits between the wet and dry seasons. A total of 154 regurgitates were obtained and results from the analyses of the regurgitates showed that the birds feed on the seeds of both wild and cultivated plants as well as on animal matter. A food niche overlap of 31.3% and a total food niche differentiation of 33.5% were observed for the four columbid species. Analyses of regurgitates obtained from captured birds showed a variation in food habits between the wet and dry seasons. The food habits of the birds in captivity were also examined through a trial-and-error approach to feeding using six selected seed types namely; maize, guinea corn, millet, cowpea, Amaranthus and Spathodea seeds. The birds consumed different amounts of the six seeds presented to them in captivity, suggesting some degree of preference. The birds consumed more of guinea corn
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A thesis submitted to the Postgraduate School Ahmadu Bello University, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Zoology
Keywords
BIOLOGY, COLUMBID, SPECIES, ZARIA, NIGERIA
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