Abundance and Seasonal Migration of Birds at the Port of Spain Sewage Ponds

Abstract

The Port of Spain sewage ponds offer an opportunity to study wetland birds in a relatively constant habitat. Twenty-five visits were made between 1985 and 1986, and all species or seen or heard along a standard route were recorded. Of 107 species recorded, 55 were associated with the sewage facility and 34 with the surrounding mangrove. The remaining species utilized both habitats. The species list included 58 residents, 40 non-residents and nine species with both migrant and resident populations. The presence of Black-necked Stilts throughout the year with nesting in June and July was confirmed. Late or early dates are recorded for Least Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Red Knot, White-rumped Sandpiper, Black Tern, Prothonotary Warbler, American Redstart and Barn Swallow. Local movement is suspected for the Yellowbreasted Crake.