AVIFAUNA OF ARDEIDAE FAMILY OF AGRO-ECOSYSTEM OF KHAN SAROVAR AND IT’S SURROUNDING AREA, PATAN (N.G.)

Wetland agro-ecosystem of Khan Sarovar and its surrounding area have provided habitat for the seven species of Ardeidae family. The Ardeidae member-Cattle Egret ( Babulcus ibis ) were dominated and common in this habitat. The Cattle Egret species seen in maximum (980) number where as Black-crowned Night Heron ( Nyctocorax nycticorax) seen in minimum (259) number. Highest relative abundance (21.16%) seen in Cattle Egret and lowest relative abundance (5.59%) seen in Black-crowned Night Heron. North Gujarat is a prime habitat for residence and breeding of the Ardeidae family. Cattle Egret became associated species to agricultural practice of the farmer. It is hoped that this study would provide a preliminary database for the Ardeidae family of this area, for further research.