THE decline in the number of migratory and colonial waterbirds in Bangladesh is reaching a crisis point, which demands urgent intervention. Recent studies show that more than 170,000 waterbirds inhabit wetlands in Bangladesh鈥檚 north and north-east, yet more than two-thirds of abandoned breeding sites have been lost to habitat destruction, human disturbance and tree felling. Rare species such as the Lesser Adjutant and the Asian Woollyneck Stork face particular risk while century-old colonies, some more than 200 years in existence, are imperilled. Observations from World Migratory Bird Day 2025 in Rajshahi echoed the concerns, with conservationists and organisations calling for bird-friendly cities and communities, strict enforcement of anti-poaching laws and the mitigation of light and plastic pollution. Experts emphasise that migratory and colonial waterbirds are crucial to ecological balance, contributing to nutrient cycling, pollination, seed dispersal and the health of wetland ecosystems. Yet, indiscriminate hunting, wetland encroachment, unregulated tourism and urban development continue to drive declines. Authorities, including the forest department and local administrations, are urged to implement protective measures, restore important habitats and actively involve communities in monitoring and safeguarding bird population, ensuring that the wetlands continue to support both wildlife and human livelihood.
The dwindling population of migratory and colonial waterbirds represent far more than a loss of aesthetic or cultural value. They signal a profound disruption in ecological balance. The birds play indispensable roles in wetland and urban ecosystems, from regulating insect population and controlling pests to facilitating seed dispersal and nutrient cycling, which sustain both flora and fauna. The collapse of the colonies can trigger cascading effects: overpopulation of certain insects, diminished plant regeneration and degradation of wetland productivity, ultimately impacting human livelihood dependent on fishing, agriculture and tourism. Poaching remains rampant despite the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act 2012, with enforcement constrained by limited human resources, inadequate oversight and low prioritisation of avian conservation. Habitat loss from wetland encroachment, tree felling, unregulated urbanisation and pollution, especially plastic objects and artificial light in cities, further exacerbate vulnerability. Addressing the challenges requires an integrated, evidence-based approach: the restoration of wetlands and floodplains, establishment of protected breeding and foraging zones and stricter anti-poaching measures, coupled with compensation schemes for affected communities. The engagement of local people, schools and youth groups in monitoring, awareness campaigns and habitat management can foster stewardship. The adoption of urban planning principles that create bird-friendly areas can ensure that migratory and colonial waterbirds continue to thrive while sustaining broader ecological health.
With winter approaching, protective measures should begin immediately to safeguard breeding sites, foraging grounds and wetlands. The authorities must enforce laws, restore wetlands and ensure protective measures at breeding and foraging sites while communities should remain vigilant against poaching and habitat destruction. Public awareness, youth engagement and scientific oversight are equally critical.
