The annual cycle and distribution of the avifauna in select ponding basins in Fresno, California

The purpose of this study is to investigate the annual use of four ponding basins in Fresno, California by avifauna. Observations of the avifauna for four ponding basins were done weekly for one annual cycle. Each basin was observed for 1 hour at standardized times. Species composition, distribution and abundance were recorded along with behaviors, location within the ponding basin, species interactions, and weather. There were a total of 45 species seen, 14 of which were common and 15 were rare. No correlations between distribution and timing of avifauna use for each pond with all measured environmental factors were observed. Only five species were seen nesting during this study. Nesting times and dates of pond maintenance were examined, so recommendations for maintenance schedules could be made. A suggestion that discing should be done between the months of October and February, which would not disturb nesting birds, was made.