Abstract: The limestone area of southwestern Guangxi located in the south of China, which is named as biodiversity hotspot for conservation priorities. From 2002 to 2014, bird diversity researches were carried out in this biodiversity hotspot area, covering 15 nature reserves, 3 forestry centres and 2 reservoirs. Total of 414 bird species were accumulated recorded, which are under 66 families and 21 orders. Among them, 245 species were residents, 54 species were summer migrants, 97 species were winter migrants and 18 were passengers. Sixty species belonged to nationally protected birds, 21 species were listed in the IUCN red list of threatened birds. One species, Stachyris nonggangensis, was endemic species to the study area. More than 50% species were breeding birds. The avifauna was characterized by South China Region with typical north tropics property. The study presented a scene of abundant bird diversity in the limestone area of southwestern Guangxi. It plays an important role in maintaining ecosystem function. Thus, more researches and more protective measures should be carried out in the limestone area.

Key words: bird, biodiversity, limestone area, southwestern Guangxi, China