Hundreds of Nesting Birds Face Eviction Threat in Bangladesh Village

A quiet village in southwestern Bangladesh has become an important nesting site for thousands of wild birds, but residents and conservation advocates warn that the sanctuary is under growing threat from human activity. In Shahpur village of Kheshra Union in Tala Upazila, Satkhira district, more than 2,000 egrets, cormorants, and other bird species have made their nests in village trees over the past two years. Every morning, the birds fill the area with their calls, transforming the village into a natural haven.

However, local residents say some people are attempting to drive the birds away, claiming they damage crops and create a nuisance with droppings.

During a visit to the village, residents alleged that bird nests have been destroyed and branches of nesting trees cut, particularly at night. Although local volunteers have tried to protect the birds, they say they lack the resources to stop the ongoing threats.

Conservation-minded residents described the birds as a source of pride for the community and urged authorities to enforce Bangladesh's wildlife protection laws.

"We have never seen so many birds here before. This is a blessing for our area and a source of pride for Satkhira," one resident said. "Some people are taking the law into their own hands by destroying nests. The administration needs to step in before irreversible damage is done."

A local schoolteacher said the site could become a valuable educational resource for future generations but warned that a lack of awareness is putting the birds at risk.

Residents are calling on the district administration, local government, and the Forest Department to inspect the site and consider officially declaring Shahpur a permanent bird sanctuary. They also urged authorities to investigate allegations of nest destruction and take legal action against anyone found violating wildlife protection laws.

Attempts to contact Priyanka Hawlader, Assistant Conservator of Forests for the Satkhira Social Forestry Division, for comment were unsuccessful.

However, Tala Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Jannatul Afroz Swarna said she had only recently learned about the situation and pledged to investigate.

"We were not previously aware of the issue," she said. "Protecting nature and biodiversity is our shared responsibility. We will inspect the area, coordinate with Forest Department officials, and explore legal measures to ensure the birds receive long-term protection."

The future of Shahpur's growing bird colony may now depend on how quickly authorities respond to residents' calls for conservation.