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The wetlands of Chalan Beel and the riverine islands of the Jamuna in Sirajganj are beginning to take on a vibrant look with the arrival of winter migratory birds, adding to the natural beauty of the region.
Even before the onset of cold winds and winter fog, various species of birds have started arriving from distant lands. Their fluttering wings, playful movements in the water and calls are bringing the wetlands to life.
Flocks of wild ducks can be seen swimming across the water, while cormorants dive for food and egrets gather along the banks of water bodies. The growing presence of the birds is also attracting nature lovers and visitors from different areas.
Every year, thousands of migratory birds travel thousands of miles from colder regions, including Siberia, to escape harsh winters. They choose Bangladesh’s rivers, wetlands, haors and beels for their favourable weather, abundant food and relatively safe habitats.
This season, herons, wild ducks, cormorants, Asian openbill storks and several other species have already started appearing in the vast Chalan Beel, particularly in Tarash, and along the Jamuna river islands in Belkuchi upazila.
Migratory birds usually become more visible as water levels in the wetlands recede. However, their arrival has been noticed somewhat earlier this year.
At daybreak, flocks gather around wetlands, beel banks and nearby croplands in search of food. They spend most of the day feeding and resting before returning to safer shelters in the evening.
Beyond their scenic appeal, migratory birds play an important role in maintaining ecological balance and protecting biodiversity. Their presence also indicates the health of local ecosystems and food chains.
However, the arrival of the birds has also raised concerns over illegal hunting. Local reports suggest that some people are setting nets and traps to catch them, while others are using food as bait to lure the birds into cages.
Mohammad Abdur Razzak Nasim, founder and executive director of environmental organisation Shadhin Jibon, told Sarabangla that migratory birds are a blessing for the country’s environment and nature.
“Birds are ornaments of nature. Travelling thousands of miles to Bangladesh, they help protect crops by feeding on harmful insects. They also contribute to aquatic ecosystems, fish production and soil fertility,” he said, calling for stronger enforcement by law enforcement agencies to prevent bird hunting.
Tarash Upazila Agriculture Officer Sharmistha Sen Gupta said migratory birds also make a positive contribution to agriculture by eating harmful insects that damage crops.
Their presence can help reduce pesticide use and lower farmers’ production costs, while bird droppings serve as natural fertiliser, she added.
Environmentalists say ensuring safe habitats for migratory birds is essential not only for wildlife conservation but also for protecting biodiversity and ecological balance.
They stressed the need for regular monitoring, public awareness campaigns and effective enforcement of existing wildlife conservation laws to stop bird hunting in Chalan Beel and the Jamuna riverine areas.