Avian diversity in hedgerows, preference to hedgerow types and their conservation at Angacha (Kembatta), central Ethiopia

The present study aimed to investigate avian diversity in hedgerows at Angacha, in the Kembatta zone, Ethiopia. Transect and point-count methods were deployed to determine avian diversity, species richness, similarity and preferences across five sub study sites. Diversity and preferences of birds to hedgerow types varied in relation to their vegetation composition and structure. Five endemic species, i.e., Rüppel's Black Chat (Cossyfa semirufa), the White-cheeked Turaco (Tauraco leucotis), the Banded Barbet (Lybius undatus), the Abyssinian Oriole (Oriolus monacha) and the Wattled Ibis (Bostrychia carucullatta) were recorded in the thick hedgerow type. Thickness, height and width of hedgerows affected the diversity, distribution and habitat preference of birds. Thick hedgerow types showed the highest avian species diversity, richness and similarity. There was a high correlation between the hedgerow diversity and its bird diversity, which was directly associated with habitat quality. Bird species diversity and preference for hedgerow types require important conservation and management priorities.