The Avifauna of Wadi Gaza Nature Reserve, Gaza Strip - Palestine

摘要: Birds are considered as good indicators of the degree human disturbance to various ecosystems. In this work, we present birds Wadi Gaza Nature Reserve and its environs, drawing upon a two-year field survey from October 2002 September 2004. Two different sites were addressed for carrying out study. Site I is almost hydric represents unique wetland ecosystem. II dry except some stormwater ponds occurring during rainy season. A total 118 avifaunistic species belonging 38 families 11 orders determined listed. Aquatic comprised 49 (41.5%) counted, while terrestrial 69 (58.5%) species. The Passeriformes was biggest order 41 (34.7%) recorded Non-passerines 77 (65.3%), which Charadriiformes formed 27 Eighty five (72.0%) bird migratory others resident. House Sparrow most common in Reserve. Cattle Egret, Chukar, Moorhen, Coot, Spur-winged Plover, Rock Dove, Laughing Barn Swallow, Yellow-vented Bulbul, White Wagtail, Palestine Sunbird Hooded Crow. major potential threats avifauna included over-population, urbanization, residential agricultural encroachment on expense natural areas, habitat destruction fragmentation, hunting poaching, intensive pesticide use at nest sites. Israeli Occupation still adversely affecting ecology area by uprooting demolishing vast vegetated areas. authors recommend improving cooperation parties rehabilitate environs enhance public awareness implement environmental laws legislations protect wildlife ensure sustainability system both humans biota.