author(s)
G Manohara, MN Harisha and BB Hosetti

abstract
The study revealed a total of 33 wetland bird species belonging to 11 families were recorded from Magadi Bird Sanctuary of Gadag District, Karnataka. Among the family, Scolopacidae dominated the list by the representation of 8 species, followed by the Anatidae with 7 species and least by Laridae, Gruidae, Rallidae, and Recurvirostridae with one species each. Of the total birds recorded based on the density and abundance, Bar-headed geese was found as the dominant species, followed by the Demoiselle Crane, Brahminy Shelduck, Lesser-whistling Duck, Black-headed Ibis, Spot-billed Duck, Black Ibis, and Common Coot, etc., The study also revealed that the lake is a vulnerable wetland harboring plenty of resident as well as few migratory birds. Four globally near threatened species were recorded like Black-headed Ibis (Threskiornis melanocephalus), Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala), Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa) and River Tern (Sterna aurantia) have a protected status under the schedule IV of Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. The present study location is also facing tremendous conservation challenges by the impact of anthropogenic alteration of the habitats in and around the lake.