Breeding Biology and Nesting Success of the Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis) in Maiduguri, Borno State, North East Nigeria

This study examines the breeding biology and nesting success of the cattle egret Bubulcus ibis at a mixed heronry in Maiduguri, Borno State, located in Nigeria's North East geopolitical zone. The cattle egret is among the most widespread birds in Nigeria and plays an important role in pest regulation through insect consumption, yet detailed breeding data from the semi-arid North East are lacking. A colony of approximately 320 nesting pairs was monitored weekly from nest construction through fledgling departure over one breeding season. Nest dimensions, clutch size, hatching success, nestling growth rates, and fledgling success were recorded. Dietary composition was determined by direct observation and regurgitate analysis from 45 nestlings. Mean clutch size was 3.2 eggs, hatching success was 71 percent, and fledgling success was 54 percent. Nesting was concentrated in acacia and prosopis trees near the Ngadda riverine gallery forest. Nest predation by monitor lizards and humans accounted for 68 percent of nest failures. The diet of nestlings was dominated by Orthoptera (38%), Odonata (22%), and Coleoptera (18%), with occasional small frogs and lizards. Adult foraging was closely associated with cattle grazing activity. The study recommends protection of the colony site from human disturbance and promotion of cattle herding near nesting sites to facilitate foraging efficiency. Keywords: Bubulcus ibis, breeding biology, nesting success, Maiduguri, cattle egret.