Reclusive Beauty

Buffaloes grazing on lush green grass at the edges of the freshwater of Tanguar Haor, the second largest freshwater haor in the country, make for a picturesque sight. The haor, in Sylhet's Sunamganj, has been listed under the Convention on Wetlands, known as the Ramsar Convention, owing to the area's importance as a waterfowl habitat. The 10,000 hectare wetland boasts a unique ecosystem and hosts a number of species of flora and fauna. It is a habitat for at least 135 fish and 208 bird species, including 92 waterfowl species and hosts 98 migratory bird species, which includes 10 IUCN Red Book and 22 CITES listed species. The area attracts around 30,000-40,000 migratory birds. Some of its most well-known feathered friends include herons, egrets, mynahs, drongos and much more. A boat trip around the area is favoured by many tourists and the haor has fast become one of the best retreats for those in love with nature and her bounties.

Photo: Sheikh Nasir