A review of the avifauna visiting the wetland environments of the Martil plain (Tetouan region, northern Morocco): Preliminary results

Abstract

The wetland environments of the plain of Martil are located in an urban area in the Tetouan region (Northern Morocco); they provide wildlife a place to live and are important for migratory birds as they travel from nesting to wintering sites. The objective of this study is to monitor the avifauna population that frequents these ecosystems. The study duration is from January 2021 to June 2022. The survey methods are the point count and visual identification, using appropriate visual equipment and according to an ornithological guide. The avifauna recorded encompasses a total of 93 bird species and 33 families. A variety of wintering, migratory, and breeding species were identified. The population includes several species of special conservation concern, such as endemic species, heritage species, species in decline, vulnerable species, endangered species and species at risk of extinction, in Morocco, in the Maghreb or in Europe. These ornithological findings underscore the significance of preserving and restoring these urban wetland environments. However, these ecosystems face a range of pressures, including urban development, climate change and anthropogenic activities.