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