Feeding Patterns and Breeding Behaviour of Indian Robin (Saxicoloides fulicatus) in the Agricultural Landscape of Bahawalpur

Abstract

The Indian Robin is a member of the Muscicapidae family of insectivorous birds. Males are distinguished by a characteristic white patch on their shoulders and a somewhat longer tail, but females have all brown top plumage and lack the white shoulder patch of the male. Typically, this species' reproductive season lasts from April to July. Indian Robins are frequently found in environments close to populated areas, as well as in rocky, dry regions with bushes and agricultural borders. For feeding and behavioral observations, a study on breeding and eating behavior was carried out in year 2024. In the vicinity of Sadiq Public School in Bahawalpur, a six-month study on the feeding patterns of the Indian Robin was conducted, first from February to April and then from September to November. For feeding and behavioral observations, a variety of instruments were used, such as notepads, binoculars, cameras, and measuring devices. In agricultural areas, six Indian Robin nests were found at locations such as the Model Primary School, Pesticide Control Laboratory, and Jhangi Wala. April, May, and June were the three months that the study was conducted.  The results showed that grains and flower seeds, as well as a variety of insects, including common species and agricultural pests, make up the Indian Robin's main diet. The varied diet of Indian Robins comprises a variety of fruits, cereals, and flower seeds. Other bird species frequently share their feeding sites with them. Information on their eggs was gathered, including weight, length, width, and nest parameters. The average dimensions were 2.16±0.05 g in weight, 19.85±0.21 mm in length, and 14.40±0.12 mm in breadth. Incubation period, chick length, and fledgling duration had mean values of 11.80±0.10 days, 80.14±0.94 mm, and 13.71±0.10 days, respectively. The aim of this study was to investigate the feeding patterns and breeding behavior of the Indian Robin in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. The objectives were to observe and record the dietary composition, nest parameters, egg dimensions, and incubation period of the Indian Robin, as well as to document its coexistence with other bird species at feeding sites.