The Effects of Habitat Loss Due To Reed Fires on Waterfowls at Van Lake Basin

Abstract

In this study, the impacts of reed fires on waterfowls were investigated at Lake Ercek, Lake Arin and Lake Norsin at Van Lake Basin. Observations and censuses were carried out to determine adult and chick rates of waterfowls, such as Anas platyrhynchos, A. clypeata, Fulica atra, Aythya ferina, Oxyura leucocephala and Podiceps nigricollis which breeds and rests at these wetlands. In these surveys, population size of these species before and following the fire were compared and assessed statistically. It was determined that reed fires were set in Autumn (October to November). After harvest of planted agricultural areas around the wetlands, reed fires were set by shepherds who graze animals through there. Fires were seen most frequently at Lake Norsin. Although, most of reeds through inshore of Lake Norsin were damaged, reeds on island in center of the lake were not affected by fires. Due to distance of Lake Arin to settlements, reed fires were seen seldomly there. © Medwell Journals, 2013.