SPECIES COMPOSITION OF THE AVIFAUNA IN A FOREST COMPLEX SOUTHWEST OF VARNA CITY

Abstract

The aim of the study is to clarify the species composition of the avifauna in forest habitats located near Varna city, but outside the boundaries of settlements. These are remote territories, allowing for the exclusion of synanthropic species populations. For this purpose, three relatively large and compact forest areas situated southwest of Varna were investigated. This geographical area is poorly studied, with no previous publicly available data or publications identified. The study areas exhibit considerable similarities regarding the type of forest habitat, including the composition, age, and type of vegetation (broadleaf/coniferous, mixed).
The research employs the transect survey method within the forest territory. The chosen approach encompasses three distinct yet relatively close forest areas, which together provide a clear picture of the species composition across this region. The systematic approach allows for a comprehensive, randomized survey of the avifaunal composition across different types of forest communities. It also serves as a robust foundation for subsequent species-specific studies. The survey was conducted via transects along existing forest roads, which varied in their maintenance level and usage intensity.
This paper presents the findings on species composition, emphasizing the similarities and clarifying the differences observed across the three sub-regions. Given that, in geographical terms, there are no insurmountable barriers to species movement within the study area, it is hypothesized that the variations in the avifaunal species composition are primarily driven by differences in the floristic composition and age structure of the forest habitats.