Ecology, Environment and Conservation Paper

POSSIBLE THREATS TO AVIFAUNAL DIVERSITY OF SEWRI MUDFLATS IN MUMBAI REGION OF MAHARASHTRA

Papiya Deb and Shweta S. Chitnis

Abstract

Sewri mudflats, located on the eastern fringe of the suburb Sewri, South Mumbai, are surrounded by several acres of Mangrove swamps on one side. A survey was undertaken to study the avifaunal diversity of these mudflats. The study shows abundance of bird variety. Various migratory birds like the lesser flamingos and waders along with resident birds were sighted. 42 species of birds from 17 families and 10 orders were recorded. The paper elaborates on the habitat of lesser flamingos and waders as also comments that avifaunal diversity might be threatened if the present project plan of Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) proposed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) commences its work.