ABSTRACT
The Ecological relationship between cattle egrets
(Bubulcus ibis) and cattle was investigated. This study examined how cattle
egrets, often found foraging around grazing cattle, benefit from this.
association, primarily by feeding on insects and parasites that are disturbed
or attracted by the cattle's presence. The project explored the impact of this
bio-interaction on the egrets' foraging behavior, distribution, and population
dynamics, while also considering its implications for livestock health and
ecosystem sustainability. Counting and observation of both cattle and cattle
egrets was done both in the morning and evening respectively. Visitation to the
selected habitats was done randomly to influence the time cattle herds are
grazing in the habitat. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistical
analysis, such as frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation. In
addition, collected data was subjected to inferential statistical analysis
using Correlation and Chi square analysis at 95% level of significance. The
results showed that there was significant relationship between the population
of the cattle egrets and their association with the cattle. Through these field
observations, behavioural studies, and ecological assessments, this research
sheds light on the intricate and mutually beneficial interactions between
wildlife and domestic animals, contributing to a more comprehensive
understanding of ecosystem dynamics and potential applications for sustainable
ecological and biodiversity conservation.
CHRISTOPHER, C (2024). Study Of The Bio-Interaction Between Cattle Egrets And Cattle In Michael Okpara University Of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria:- Onwunali, Christopher C. Repository.mouau.edu.ng: Retrieved Nov 21, 2024, from https://repository.mouau.edu.ng/work/view/study-of-the-bio-interaction-between-cattle-egrets-and-cattle-in-michael-okpara-university-of-agriculture-umudike-nigeria-onwunali-christopher-c-7-2
CHIBUNNA, CHRISTOPHER. "Study Of The Bio-Interaction Between Cattle Egrets And Cattle In Michael Okpara University Of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria:- Onwunali, Christopher C" Repository.mouau.edu.ng. Repository.mouau.edu.ng, 28 Aug. 2024, https://repository.mouau.edu.ng/work/view/study-of-the-bio-interaction-between-cattle-egrets-and-cattle-in-michael-okpara-university-of-agriculture-umudike-nigeria-onwunali-christopher-c-7-2. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
CHIBUNNA, CHRISTOPHER. "Study Of The Bio-Interaction Between Cattle Egrets And Cattle In Michael Okpara University Of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria:- Onwunali, Christopher C". Repository.mouau.edu.ng, Repository.mouau.edu.ng, 28 Aug. 2024. Web. 21 Nov. 2024. < https://repository.mouau.edu.ng/work/view/study-of-the-bio-interaction-between-cattle-egrets-and-cattle-in-michael-okpara-university-of-agriculture-umudike-nigeria-onwunali-christopher-c-7-2 >.
CHIBUNNA, CHRISTOPHER. "Study Of The Bio-Interaction Between Cattle Egrets And Cattle In Michael Okpara University Of Agriculture Umudike, Nigeria:- Onwunali, Christopher C" Repository.mouau.edu.ng (2024). Accessed 21 Nov. 2024. https://repository.mouau.edu.ng/work/view/study-of-the-bio-interaction-between-cattle-egrets-and-cattle-in-michael-okpara-university-of-agriculture-umudike-nigeria-onwunali-christopher-c-7-2