Bird diversity in Bismil Plain IBA'S with new records for South-eastern Anatolia, Turkey

The birds of Bismil Plain were surveyed between October 2002-June 2004 periods, and evaluations were made for the effects of agriculture on the bird diversity. During the observation period, 147 bird species belonging to 13 orders and 42 families were determined and listed. Among those species defined, 47 were certainly breeding in the area, 22 probably and six possibly, while 72 of them were transitory migrating or wintering birds for the region. Of the recorded species, 11 have not previously been recorded in the South-east of Turkey. Amongst the recorded species, nine are globally threatened, while 36 are threatened for Turkey without least concern species. The intensive agricultural activities affect bird diversity in the area. And also, if the IlA +/- su Dam project put in to practice, the existing diversity of the avifauna may be change. The regional distribution of bird species in the plain is presented together with comments on the relation of agricultural intensification. The available information suggests that the region is in the path of an important flyway for migrant species. The determination of bird species will help to evaluate and compare the changes in the bird fauna and conservation efforts in the future.