Abstract
This study was conducted from January to December 2021 in four urban areas within the city of Tripoli, Libya. The study aimed to inventory bird species utilizing urban habitats and to assess the impact of urbanization levels on bird diversity and abundance across the study sites. A total of 47 bird species, including both terrestrial and aquatic birds, were recorded. The University of Tripoli site supported 43 species and 343 individuals, with an urbanization rate of 68.5%. In Al-Sabaa, 33 species and 508 individuals were recorded, with an urbanization rate of 75.1%. Al-Dhahra hosted 32 species and 291 individuals, where urbanization reached 86.3%. The highest urbanization level was recorded in Al-Manshiya (98.7%), where 30 species and 335 individuals were observed. No significant differences were detected in bird diversity among the study areas; however, bird abundance varied significantly between sites. The highest species diversity and dominance indices were recorded at the University of Tripoli, whereas the lowest diversity was observed in Al-Sabaa. The greatest similarity in species composition was found between Al-Sabaa and Al-Manshiya. Seasonal variation was also evident. Species diversity reached its maximum during spring and its minimum during winter. Bird abundance showed substantial seasonal fluctuations, with the highest abundance recorded in spring (1,157 individuals) and the lowest in autumn (683 individuals). The results indicated a negative effect of increasing urbanization on bird diversity, whereas no significant effect was observed on bird abundance. Two globally vulnerable species were recorded during the study: the Southern Grey Shrike (Lanius meridionalis) and the European Turtle Dove (Streptopelia turtur). In addition, the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula) was documented as a resident breeding species, contrary to previous studies that had classified it as a winter visitor.