The arrival of visitor birds aligns with the arrival of winter in Bangladesh. With the onset of pleasant winter conditions in our homeland, one without snow and hail, and the availability of ample amount of food sources, Bangladesh becomes a temporary home for the migratory birds. The visitors, however return back to their homeland around February and March, when the harsh winter weather back at home have subsided. Given the beauty of nature, this makes a great time for bird watchers to witness exotic and rare birds from foreign countries.
Here are some key locations for bird enthusiasts to spot migratory birds in Bangladesh this season:
Hakaluki Haor, Sylhet-Moulvibazar
Hakaluki Haor, a marsh wetland located in northeastern Bangladesh, is one of the largest wetlands in the country, as well as in South Asia. The wetland serves as a perfect shelter for the thousands of migratory birds in the winter season.
Birds such as Gadwall (Piyang Hansh), Ruddy Shelduck (Chokha- Chokhi), African Pied Wagtail (Khonjon), Northern Shoveler (Pantamukhi/ Utture Khuntehansh), Cotton Pygmy Goose (Balihansh/ Belehansh), Pintail Duck (Lenja Hansh/ Kaldigheri), Red-Crested Pochard (Rangamuri) and other migratory birds are easily noticeable in Hakaluki Haor.
Nijhum Dwip, Noakhali
Nijhum Dwip is a beautiful coastal island located in the district of Noakhali. During winter, a significant number of migratory water birds, including several globally threatened species, reach the island.
Indian Skimmer (Deshi Gangchosha) — which can be found only in this area in Bangladesh, Black-headed Ibis (Kalomatha Kastechora), Black-tailed Godwit (Kalo Lej Jourali), Pied Avocet (Khoaj), Kentish Plover (Jiriya), Little Stint (Bamon Chapakhi), Curlew Sandpiper (Gulinda Batan), Redshank (Lal Pa Piu) and Greenshank (Pati Shobuj Pa) are some of the rare guest birds that can be found in Nijhum Dwip.
Char Kukri Mukri, Bhola
Char Kukri Mukri is a coastal island located in Bhola district, a destination for numerous migratory bird species, making it an excellent location for bird enthusiasts.
From November to February, the island attracts various waders or shorebirds, including the endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper (Chamoch-Thuto Batan) and other migratory species.
Baikka Beel, Moulvibazar
Since 2003, Baikka Beel in Moulvibazar, has been a permanent wetland sanctuary where fishing is not allowed. This protection attracts a large number of migratory birds every winter, as there is no shortage for their food. For this reason, the sanctuary has become a popular spot for bird lovers to enjoy its beautiful scenery, and that includes varieties of birds flying around.
Chalan Beel, Sirajganj-Natore-Pabna
Chalan Beel is the largest wetland in northwestern Bangladesh. The water level of the wetland transforms significantly with the change of the seasons. From the month of October, migratory birds start to arrive at Chalan Beel, bringing life to the area.
Snipe (Kadakhoncha), Cotton Pygmy Goose (Balihansh/ Belehansh), Oriental Darter (Goyar), Pintail Duck (Lenja Hansh/ Kaldigheri) are the most common migratory birds that can be found in Chalan Beel.
Jahangirnagar University, Dhaka
As the number of birds has declined in recent years, as many as 20-25 species can still be spotted around the areas such as Monpura, Pritilata Hall, Murad Chattar, and other locations in the Jahangirnagar campus. The greeneries and available food sources at the campus create a safe haven for these birds.
These seasonal sceneries attract not only students, but also numerous visitors and bird enthusiasts, looking for an escape from the busy city life, as the campus is not very far from Dhaka city.
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