Birds transform identity of a village in Nilphamari

NILPHAMARI, Aug 15:  A vast bamboo grove spanning around 4 acres and 20 decimals in Bhogdaburi Union of Domar Upazila has become a safe haven for birds, transforming the identity of a once little-known village.

West Dangapara Village is now popularly known as “Bird Village” because of the thousands of birds that have made the grove their home.

According to locals, birds have been living in the bamboo grove for more than two centuries, finding shelter among its dense foliage. 

The grove is now home to a variety of species, including egrets, cormorants, night herons, doves, magpies, oriental magpies, mynas, baya weavers and sparrows.

The naturally grown bamboo grove has become a longstanding bird habitat. The area remains filled with the calls of thousands of birds throughout the day, while villagers have been protecting them with care.

Aminur Rahman, owner of the bamboo grove, said different species of birds had been living there since the time of his ancestors.

“We want the birds to remain safe here in the future as well. We need the administration’s support to ensure that,” he said.

Besides local birds, different species of migratory birds also arrive at the village during winter.

However, locals fear that the centuries-old habitat is increasingly under threat due to illegal hunting, inadequate conservation measures and a lack of basic facilities.

Rafiqul Islam, a resident of the area, said the birds spend the night in the bamboo grove and fly out at dawn in search of food.

“Every morning, villagers wake up to the sound of birds chirping. Nature lovers and visitors from different areas also come here every day to see this large bird sanctuary,” he said.

But the number of birds has gradually declined due to various environmental factors, he added.

Mamtaz Ali, another resident, said visitors from far and wide come to see the bird habitat.

“We all try to ensure that nobody disturbs the birds. If the government gives the place proper attention, it could become a tourist attraction,” he said.

Visitor Alamgir Hossain said many people come to see the birds but leave soon because there are no proper seating facilities.

“If the government takes steps to develop the area, it could become a popular tourist destination,” he said.
Domar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shaila Sayeed Tanvi said the bird sanctuary played an important role in maintaining ecological balance.

“The upazila administration has already carried out some improvement work, including excavating a pond. We are working with the Forest Department and the Department of Livestock Services to develop plans to make the Bird Village safer and more visitor-friendly,” she said.

Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Nayiruzzaman said he had visited the village and seen the variety of bird species there.

“We have plans to further develop the village. These include improving access roads, excavating ponds and planting bamboo, jamun and other trees so that the birds can naturally find food there,” he said.