Feeding ecology and activity patterns of African Spoonbill (Platalea alba) in and around Lake Ziway, Ethiopia

Abstract

Feeding ecology, activity patterns and habitat association of the African spoonbill (Platalea alba) in Lake Ziway were studied during March-September, 2011. A total of 28 individuals of African Spoonbills were recorded in both wet and dry seasons. They spent more time for stirring and feeding than other diurnal activities. The durations spent on stirring, feeding, movement and resting were statistically significant between seasons ( =29.9, p<0.001, = 38.1, p<0.001, =11.1, p<0.001, = 57.3, p<0.001, respectively). However, the time engaged in preening, wing display and defecation did not show significant difference between seasons. Additional studies were made in four different study sites, where the species was frequently observed. The time devoted for different activity patterns in wet and dry seasons in the study sites was statistically significant ( = 639.31, P < 0.0001). The activity patterns of African Spoonbill could influence substantially by tidal stage, rise and fall of water level in foraging sites, and other related environmental factors. Keywords: African Spoonbill, activity patterns, diet.