Breeding activity period,distribution and nest performance of rufous-vented prinia,prinia burnesii burnesii (Blyth),in Pakistan

This study was undertaken in the wake of absence of any description on breeding activity period,present distribution status and nest performance of the rufous-vented prinia prinia burnesii burnesii (passeriformes: sylvidae) inhabiting the indus plains of pakistan,as well as north-west india. it was found that breeding activity season was marked with the territorial male calls from february 10 to may 18,when fledglings could be seen around river indus between chashma barrage (in the north) to guddu barrage (in the south) and in other tributaries,where suitable alluvial habitats are found. rufous-vented prinia was observed building nest on march 26 at faridabad (30°30' n 70°45' e). predominantly female remained inside the nest for 59.9% (n = 49) of the total time (2,678 minutes) observed during incubation period. by april 20 chicks were hatched. both male and female birds were observed provisioning the chicks. during rearing period (april 18-may 1) the female remained inside the nest for 23.75% (n = 141) of the total time (2,467 min) observed. our observations conclude overall breeding period of rufous-vented prinia from nest-building to fledging encircles around 38 days. during this time,male and female,both birds contribute significantly in rearing of chicks. © copyright 2014 zoological society of pakistan.