The Bangladesh Bird Club has completed its annual bird census at Baikka Beel Sanctuary in Moulvibazar's Hail Haor, recording a significant increase in bird numbers.

This year's census documented 7,870 water birds from 38 species, compared to 4,615 birds from 33 species in 2024 and 6,141 birds from 40 species in 2023.

Baikka Beel, a fish sanctuary and haven for migratory and resident aquatic birds, saw remarkable sightings, including 750 Grey-headed Lapwings and a record 639 Glossy Ibises and 100 Black-headed Ibises. A peregrine falcon, the world's fastest bird, was spotted for the first time, said Moniruzzaman, site officer for Centre for Natural Resource Studies, who called it a "rocket bird."

He said around 59 percent of the birds are migratory, benefitting from Baikka Beel's peaceful environment and fishing ban.

Minnat Ali, president of the Baragangina Resource Management Committee, suggested introducing visitor fees to improve sanctuary management and fund additional staff to address challenges in overseeing the large area.