BIRD DISTRIBUTION AND HABITAT STRUCTURE ON LAKE NAIVASHA, KENYA

In July and September 1987 a study of the distribution and abundance of bird species on Lake Naivasha was conducted with respect to lakeside habitat. From thirteen survey points around Lakes Naivasha and Oloidien seven habitat types were defined. Those habitats supporting submerged or emergent vegetation accommodated the greatest abundance and richness of birds. Species richness was possibly further enhanced by habitat complexity, and open shallow shorelines added variety to the avifauna by attracting species with relatively specialized requirements (mainly Charadriiformes). Eighteen species were recorded feeding on the introduced floating fern Salvinia molesta, five regularly.