Abstract: To understand the avian species diversity and distribution in the Gaowangjie National Nature Reserve in Hunan,a systematic survey of bird diversity was conducted using line transect surveys and infrared camera trapping from 2022 to 2023.The results showed that a total of 145 bird species were recorded,belonging to 15 orders and 49 families.Passeriformes dominated with 89 species across 31 families,while non-Passeriformes accounted for 56 species across 18 families.Two species of nationally protected Class I wild birds were recorded:Scaly-sided Merganser (Mergus squamatus) and Elliot's Pheasant (Syrmaticus ellioti),along with 22 species of nationally protected Class Ⅱ wild birds.According to the China Red List of Vertebrates,16 species were listed as threatened (endangered,vulnerable,or near-threatened),with an additional 61 bird species designated as provincially protected in Hunan.In terms of zoogeographical regions,oriental species predominated (71 species),and resident birds were the primary residency type (90 species).The woodland habitat had the highest species diversity index (3.47),while aquatic habitats had the lowest (1.95).Significant differences in bird species diversity were observed among different habitats,but no significant differences were found between functional zones.Based on these findings,the following conservation recommendations are proposed to strengthen wildlife protection awareness campaigns and strictly prohibit illegal hunting and habitat destruction;Establish an ecological compensation mechanism to provide economic incentives for affected villagers to encourage conservation efforts.

Key words: Gaowangjie National Nature Reserve, floristic features, bird diversity, species diversity index