Indian Journal of Ecology
Web of Science
  • Year: 2026
  • Volume: 53
  • Issue: 1

Bird Diversity and Anthropogenic Impacts in the Southern Lake Chad Wetlands, Cameroon

  • Author:
  • Wansang Daksala1*, Kougoum Piebeng Ghislain Noé1, Kondasso Lea Taiga2, Bakwo Fils Eric Moise3
  • Total Page Count: 15
  • Page Number: 1 to 15

1Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Maroua, Maroua, Cameroon, BP 814, Maroua, BPCameroon

2Department of Environmental Sciences, Higher Intitute of Agriculture, Forestry, Water and Environment of Belabo, University of Bertoua, Belabo, Cameroon, BP: 416Bertoua, Cameroon

3Department of Biological Science, Faculty of water and Environment, University of Ebolowa, Ebolowa, Cameroon, BP 118, Ebolowa, Cameroon

*Corresponding Author Email: dwansang@gmail.com

Abstract

This study, conducted in the southern part of Lake Chad (Far North Region, Cameroon), assessed bird diversity and conservation status using data collection methods along linear transects and Japanese net captures. A total of 213 species belonging to 24 orders and 67 families were recorded. Species richness was higher in the dry season (210 species) than in the rainy season (193 species), and higher around water points (98 species). The Shannon index was higher in the rainy season (H' = 2.1283 bits) than in the dry season (H' = 1.8149 bits), indicating greater diversity during the rainy season. Nine types of human activities were identified, with pollution being highest in the dry season (44.72 signs/km) and grazing predominant in the rainy season (24.63 signs/km). These activities negatively affected avian diversity in the dry season and rainy season). Conservation measures are needed to preserve this rich but threatened birdlife.

Keywords

Birds, Lake Chad, Cameroon, Diversity, Anthropogenic