Every year, during the winter, migratory or guest birds arrive in Bangladesh. Birds from cold regions of the world-such as Siberia, Northern Europe, the Himalayas, and Tibet-migrate south in search of safe shelter and food due to severe cold, snowfall, and scarcity of resources in their native habitats. Countries like Bangladesh, with comparatively milder winters, provide ideal conditions. Rivers, haors, wetlands, and islands offer sufficient water, food, and safe shelter. Therefore, every winter, these birds travel thousands of miles to reach Bangladesh.
Migratory birds generally start arriving in Bangladesh from November and can be seen until March, marking the peak of winter. During this period, rivers, wetlands, haors, and char (river island) areas across the country come alive with the melodious calls and vibrant movements of these birds, creating a unique spectacle of nature. Notable sites include Hakaluki Haor, one of the largest wetlands in the northeast; Hail Haor and Tanguar Haor, both rich in biodiversity; Nijhum Island with its dense coastal greenery; and Maheshkhali and Sonadia Islands, which provide safe resting and feeding grounds along the sea. Even urban areas like the Jahangirnagar University campus and various water bodies around Dhaka witness the arrival of these birds, bringing a touch of nature into city life. These locations offer abundant food, water, and shelter, encouraging the birds to return year after year. Their seasonal presence not only sustains the ecological balance of wetlands and aquatic habitats but also creates opportunities for birdwatchers, researchers, and nature enthusiasts to observe this fascinating migratory phenomenon up close.
The number and diversity of migratory birds arriving in Bangladesh are remarkable. These include species such as Ruddy Shelduck, Stork, Common Teal, Pintail, Cuckoo, Watercock, Kingfisher, Sandpiper, Peregrine Falcon, Black-headed Gull, Heron, Snipe, Wild Duck, Little Crane, Greater Crane, Northern Pintail, among many others. These birds often fly in flocks-sometimes forming arcs, the English letter "V," or garland-like formations. They use rivers, wetlands, and islands as safe resting grounds. Ornithologists note that these birds can naturally travel thousands of miles with precise navigation.
Migratory birds are not merely a source of aesthetic beauty; they perform critical ecological and economic functions that are essential for the environment and human livelihoods. In agriculture, these birds act as natural pest controllers, feeding on insects, larvae, and other harmful organisms that could otherwise damage crops. This reduces the need for chemical pesticides, supporting more sustainable farming practices. In aquatic ecosystems, they help maintain a balanced food web by consuming pests and small organisms that could disrupt fish populations, thus indirectly supporting local fisheries. Their droppings enrich the soil with vital nutrients, enhancing fertility and promoting healthier plant growth, which in turn sustains other wildlife species.
According to the 2012 Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, hunting,
killing, selling, or possession of migratory birds carries a maximum
penalty of one year imprisonment, a fine of 100,000 Taka, or both.
However, in practice, enforcement is inadequate. Therefore, authorities,
police, and local officials must actively monitor and strengthen
vigilance
Beyond ecological benefits, migratory birds have a significant impact on tourism.
Wetlands, haors, riverbanks, and coastal islands that host these birds attract both domestic and international birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. The seasonal influx of visitors generates economic opportunities for local communities, including guides, boat operators, and hospitality services, thereby boosting rural and regional economies. By drawing attention to the country's rich biodiversity, migratory birds also raise awareness about environmental conservation, encouraging sustainable practices among local residents and tourists alike. In this way, they contribute not only to ecological balance but also to cultural and economic enrichment, highlighting their indispensable role in the broader landscape of Bangladesh's natural heritage.
According to the 2012 Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, hunting, killing, selling, or possession of migratory birds carries a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment, a fine of 100,000 Taka, or both. However, in practice, enforcement is inadequate. Therefore, authorities, police, and local officials must actively monitor and strengthen vigilance. Providing alternative livelihoods in haor regions could also reduce bird hunting.
Protecting migratory birds requires awareness from every citizen. Approaching birds for photography or making loud noises can disturb them, causing them to move away. Maintaining a safe distance is therefore crucial. Our goal should be to treat migratory birds as honored guests, protecting their lives and habitats while refraining from hunting. Over the past decade, the number of migratory birds in Bangladesh has declined, primarily due to human interference, hunting, habitat destruction, and pesticide use. Public awareness and love for nature are essential to addressing this crisis.
Winter migratory birds in Bangladesh not only enhance the country's beauty but also play a critical role in agriculture, wetlands, and ecological balance. Our responsibility is to ensure a safe environment for them through law enforcement, public awareness, and humane behavior. In doing so, a harmonious relationship between our country, its birds, and nature can be maintained. The calls of migratory birds should awaken rural Bangladesh like a melody of joy, enriching our natural environment.
The writer is a contributor
