The Ecology of Merops Orientalis

Abstract

— An ecosystem functions by the interrelationship between the different types of living organisms found in it. The birds are a vital component of many a food chains as they occupy diverse habitats and therefore, they play a very important role in establishing ecological balance in the nature. Thus, study of avian ecology is very important aspect of life-science. The Merops orientalis , commonly called as the ‗green bee-eater‘, is a very beautiful bird which is commonly found in the countryside. This study has been conducted to know the feeding, social and nesting behaviors of these tiny green bee-eaters. These amazing insectivorous birds are commonly found in this lush green region of Mosabani, a rural area in Jharkhand. These small hunters are slender having very colorful plumage and a typical tail structure. They mostly occur in pairs and nest in colonies. They roost on trees huddled in large groups making loud shrilling ‗treee- treee‘ sounds. These birds camouflage beautifully with the green leaves of the trees and bushes.