A new scientific study entitled “The Impact of Urbanization on Bird Diversity and Abundance in Some Areas of Tripoli, Libya” has recently been published in the Libyan Journal of Ecological & Environmental Sciences and Technology (LJEEST) in August 2026.

The study aimed to assess the effects of different levels of urbanization on bird diversity and abundance in several urban areas of Tripoli. Birds were surveyed from January to December 2021 in four study sites: the University of Tripoli, Al-Sab’a, Al-Dhahra, and Al-Manshiya. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) were used to determine the proportions of built-up areas and green spaces within the study sites.

A total of 47 bird species, comprising 1,477 individuals, were recorded during the study period. The University of Tripoli recorded the highest species richness, with 43 species, followed by Al-Sab’a with 33 species, Al-Dhahra with 32 species, and Al-Manshiya with the lowest number, at 30 species.

The results also revealed substantial differences in the degree of urbanization among the study sites. Built-up areas accounted for 68.54% of the University of Tripoli site, 75.17% in Al-Sab’a, and 86.37% in Al-Dhahra, while reaching 98.75% in Al-Manshiya, the highest proportion recorded among the four sites.

The findings indicated a negative relationship between the proportion of built-up areas and bird species richness. However, the study found no statistically significant effect of the proportion of built-up areas on bird abundance.

The study also highlighted the importance of seasonal variation. Species diversity reached its highest level during spring and its lowest during winter. Bird abundance was likewise highest in spring, reaching 1,157 individuals, while the lowest abundance was recorded in autumn, with 683 individuals.

These findings highlight the importance of conserving green spaces within cities, which represent essential components of urban habitats used by birds. The study also provides valuable field data for understanding how bird communities respond to urban expansion in Tripoli.

The full study is available in the “Scientific Publications” section.