Ecological drivers of foraging habitat selection by waders in Noakhali wetlands, Bangladesh

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine which ecological factors affecting foraging habitat selection by waders within the wetland habitats of Noakhali, Bangladesh. A total of 16 wading bird species belonging to 11 genera, 6 families, and 4 orders were recorded during the study period. The shallow water level, abundance of emergent vegetation, dietary items and length of their legs were key factors that facilitated independent foraging by waders. Among the four study sites, three exhibited similarity in vegetation diversity which corresponded with the preference by wading birds. One site exhibited the highest water depth (2.13 m) and the lowest (12 species) diversity of emergent vegetation. Correspondingly, this site experienced minimal visitation by wading birds. Dietary analysis revealed, the recorded food items of wading birds were predominantly of animal origin (72.7%), particularly chordates (56.25%), arthropods (25%), and molluscs (18.75%); whereas 27% were plant origin. This study highlights the critical role of ecological variables, particularly foraging depth, water depth, vegetation diversity, and prey resources in determining foraging site selection among wading birds. These findings contribute valuable insights into the habitat requirements of these species and may inform future conservation strategies aimed at preserving wetland ecosystems and their associated avifauna.

Bangladesh J. Zool. 54(1): 113-128, 2026