Rajshahi: The government has, for the first time, declared two ecologically significant wetlands in Rajshahi district as ‘Wetland-Dependent Wildlife Sanctuaries’. The declaration was made today through two separate gazette notifications issued by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the newly declared sanctuaries include a 1.65-acre wetland in Biljowana Mouza under Tanore Upazila and a 15.08-acre wetland in Bilbala Mouza under Godagari Upazila of the district. These wetlands are crucial winter habitats for both native and migratory birds. Native waterfowl such as Kalem, Kora, Dahuk, Gurguri, Jalpipi, and Jalmojur, along with various migratory ducks like the Common Teal, Lesser Whistling Duck, Northern Pintail, Piyang Duck, Khunte Duck, and Gadwall, are commonly found in these areas.
In total, over 100 bird species inhabit these wetlands, coexisting with amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. However, the increasing human activities and population pressure have posed threats to these wetland ecosystems and their biodiversity. With the new designation as wildlife sanctuaries, these areas will now provide safer habitats for birds and other wildlife, as highlighted in a ministry press release.
Additionally, these sanctuaries will serve as key sites for education, research, and ecotourism, particularly attracting students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts. The declaration has been made under the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012.