Photo: BSS

MEHERPUR, April 26, 2026 (BSS) - A noticeable increase in bird populations across Meherpur district is signaling a positive shift in environmental conditions, driven by heightened public awareness, reduced hunting, and local conservation initiatives.

Residents report that species such as doves, red-throated doves, and shaliks, once rarely seen, are now becoming a common sight in village skies and trees. Their return has brought renewed vitality to the natural landscape, with the soft, melodious calls of doves adding a sense of tranquility to rural life, particularly during the quiet hours of dawn and afternoon.

Local resident Saad Hossain of Harirampur village in Sadar upazila said that indiscriminate bird hunting in previous years had pushed many species toward near extinction. However, stricter law enforcement and a growing anti-poaching mindset within the community have helped reverse the trend.

Echoing similar observations, another villager Ruhul Amin said hunting activities that once took place daily have largely disappeared. “Birds are now nesting and breeding safely,” he said, adding that doves have recently built nests in trees near his home—something that was not seen even two years ago.

Bird presence has increased across various habitats, including agricultural fields, bamboo groves, fruit orchards, and homestead trees. The group flights of shaliks and the gentle cooing of doves have once again become familiar features of the rural environment.

Bird expert Sadananda Mandal emphasized the ecological significance of this resurgence, saying that birds serve as natural pest controllers by feeding on harmful insects, thereby contributing to agricultural health and environmental balance.

Educational institutions are also playing a role in fostering conservation. Abdul Wadud, an assistant teacher at Fatehpur Government Primary School, said awareness programs have encouraged students to actively participate in protecting bird species.

Meherpur Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Khairul Islam highlighted the importance of sustaining this progress through continued efforts such as forest conservation, tree plantation, and habitat protection. He confirmed that surveillance has been strengthened to curb illegal hunting.

Officials and residents alike believe that these combined efforts are helping restore ecological balance, with nature gradually reclaiming its harmony in Meherpur.