This study has shown that the Marcali reservoir is an important waterbird wetland habitat espe-
cially during the migration period. Based on our findings early springtime season proved to be the most
important season concerning bird activities on the reservoir. The reservoir and its surroundings are not spe-
cifically important as breeding areas; although, some strictly protected species can be found among the breed-
ing species. It is noteworthy to mention the strong disturbance (waterfolw hunting, intensive fishing, poaching)
in the area that can have a negative impact on the breeding success of bird species. The results of similarity
measures showed remarkable differences between the bird communities of different seasons. Waterbird com-
munities of the spring season and summer season showed the highest similarity, since part of the species
observed during the spring surveys were most probably breeding species that remained in the reservoir area
for the summer. Comparison based on bird species diversity showed significant differences between communi
-
ties of the different seasons. Diversity was higher both in the breeding and the migration season compared with
the winter period characterized by the lowest species richness and number of individuals. Water level has
proved to be an important determining factor of waterbird species richness
