Spatial Patterns of Bird Diversity and Abundance in an Urban Tropical Landscape: The University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman Campus

Abstract

An analytical biogeographic analysis of urban bird diversity and abundance was conducted in the University of the Philippines Diliman campus from February to April 2005. Using the Jokimäki urban bird census technique on four different land use subplots we observed 36 species of birds and 4036 cumulative counts individuals of these species. The open field area had the highest number of species (23) while the residential area had the lowest species number (14). The residential area has the highest bird counts and the College of Science complex had the lowest number of counts. Linear regression analysis of landscape features on bird abundances reveals that the number of trees and buildings are most significant predictors of abundances. Spatial features and the trophic characteristics of the bird species are not significant factors to account for abundance. Trees and buildings affect the distribution and abundance of urban exploiting species Passer montanus and Pycnonotus goiavier with the former favoring built spaces and the latter favoring trees. Analysis of species area curves suggests that the bird community of the campus is not homogenized and that certain habitats allow uncommon species to persist. We recommend that in order to increase bird biodiversity existing green spaces must be preserved, fruit trees planted and in areas reserved for building development, pocket gardens and rooftop gardens be included in the landscape architectural design.