Coastal biodiversity is under severe threat as wildlife species face endangerment due to food shortages and habitat loss, resulting in a noticeable decline in their populations. Iconic creatures like the melodious cuckoo and scavenging vultures, once abundant, are now rarely spotted, and even migratory birds are experiencing dwindling numbers during the winter season.
The silent killers of coastal biodiversity are revealed to be poaching, deforestation, unplanned urbanization, and a lack of awareness among coastal residents. Environmental officials stress the urgent need for the proper implementation of the Wildlife Conservation and Safety Act of 2012, alongside extensive public awareness campaigns.
Experts attribute the decline in wildlife to rampant bird poaching, uncontrolled practices such as laying current nets to protect fruits leading to unintended bird casualties, and the loss of innocent lives due to superstitions and unchecked hunting. Excessive pesticide use by farmers further exacerbates the crisis.
In light of the global significance of wildlife conservation, the United Nations declared March 3 as World Wildlife Day in 2013, aiming to raise awareness about the world’s wildlife and flora. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Bangladesh has witnessed the extinction of 31 animal species, with 390 more on the brink of extinction out of its estimated 1,600 animal species.
Bayezid Munshi, a data collector from the environmental organization “Animal Lovers of Patuakhali,” underscores human ignorance as a significant factor contributing to wildlife extinction. Superstitions, unchecked bird hunting, and the lack of old trees in villages further compound the crisis.
Mejbah Uddin Mannu, a senior journalist specializing in environmental and animal issues, emphasizes the need for awareness creation to ensure the existence of these animals, stating, “Everyone should create awareness to ensure the existence of these animals.”
Abul Kalam, Mahipur Range Officer of Patuakhali Coastal Forest Division, and Patuakhali Deputy Conservator of Forests Md Shofiqul Islam both stress the alarming decrease in coastal wildlife and advocate for increased awareness and efforts to combat deforestation.
