Foraging Niche and Food Preference of Selected Insectivorous Birds from Family Monarchidae and Muscicapidae (Passeriformes) in Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary, Gujarat, India

This study examines the foraging behavior of seven insectivorous bird species from the Monarchidae and Muscicapidae families in Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary during the winter of 2020-2022. The aim is to understand how these birds utilize different foraging strategies and substrates to explore niche segregation. Data were collected on perch type, perching and foraging height, foraging substrate, foraging methods, and food preferences. This information was standardized and analyzed as percent use for comparative purposes. Foraging behavior was assessed through observation of perching height, attack maneuvers, and food capture locations. Flycatcher species predominantly perched and foraged at lower heights (0-3 m) and preferred shrubs and small trees. Sallying was the most frequently used attack maneuver (61.17%), with food capture occurring most commonly under leaves (50.33%). The Asian Paradise Flycatcher exhibited a preference for capturing prey in mid-air, likely due to its larger size relative to other species. Statistical analysis revealed that foraging height was the primary factor influencing behavioral variation, followed by attack maneuver and substrate composition. Study shows that foraging substrate choice and attack tactics contribute significantly to niche segregation among the studied insectivorous birds. These findings underscore the role of foraging strategies in reducing interspecies competition within a shared habitat