The Avifauna of Pugu Hills and Ruvu South Coastal Forests amidst Railway Development

Abstract

Pugu and Ruvu South are biologically important coastal forests, with several endemic species and host a significant number of bird species restricted to the Eastern Africa Coastal Forest biodiversity hotspot. The avifauna of the area is characterized by forest-dependent species, some of which are globally threatened. In this chapter, baseline information on birds along the electrified standard-gauge railway alignment within the two forests is provided. The chapter further provides an account of the avifaunal richness and status of the forest reserves. This compilation presents a total of 267 (29% forest-dependent) and 201 (26% forest-dependent) bird species known for Pugu and Ruvu South forest reserves, respectively. Nonetheless, both forests are threatened by unsustainable utilization of forest resources and the effects associated with linear infrastructure development. The rate of habitat modification in the reserves is worrying and requires immediate attention to preserve forest avian populations.