Deer poaching continues to threaten wildlife in the Sundarbans despite a significant increase in the species’ population in recent years, according to environmentalists and forest officials.
The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to more than 300 wildlife species, with spotted deer the most commonly sighted.
A survey by the International Union for Conservation of Nature in December 2023 estimated the deer population at 136,604, up from 83,000 in 2004.
Despite this growth, conservationists say organised poaching continues year-round, often involving syndicates and, at times, alleged collusion by corrupt forest officials. Traps set for deer also endanger other wildlife, including wild boars and even tigers.
Forest Department sources said recent drives led to the arrest of several suspects and the seizure of deer meat, skins, and traps from different parts of the forest.
People from forest-adjacent upazilas—Koyra, Dakop and Paikgachha in Khulna; Shyamnagar in Satkhira; and Mongla and Shoronkhola in Bagerhat—are reportedly involved in poaching activities. Locals claim more than 150 organised groups remain active in the area.
Poachers often enter the forest disguised as fishermen, setting rope traps along animal trails. Animals caught are slaughtered inside the forest, with meat sold in local markets and skins and other parts smuggled elsewhere.
Demand for venison rises during festivals, further fuelling illegal hunting. Locally, venison sells for Tk 600–700 per kg, rising to Tk 1,000–2,000 in district markets. A live deer can fetch Tk 15,000–20,000.
Environmentalists warn that deer are the primary prey of the Royal Bengal tiger and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. They believe the actual scale of poaching is far greater than detected, as major smugglers often evade arrest.
They also stress the need for alternative livelihoods for communities dependent on forest resources to curb wildlife crime.
Forest officials say surveillance and patrolling have been intensified. Divisional Forest Officers Rezaul Karim Chowdhury and AZM Hasanur Rahman said special vigilance is in place during the ongoing honey collection season, which began on April 1.
They acknowledged manpower shortages but said efforts are underway to strengthen enforcement.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Coast Guard, are continuing drives against poaching, smuggling and other illegal activities in the forest and adjoining coastal areas.
Imran Ahmed, Conservator of Forests in Khulna, said forest personnel are actively working to curb wildlife crimes, arrest poachers and seize traps. He added that illegal intruders, including fishermen, mowals and bawalis, have also been detained, along with harmful fishing gear.
State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam said protecting the Sundarbans is a national responsibility and warned of strict action against anyone involved in forest crimes, including officials.