Coastal wildlife species are facing endangerment due to food and habitat shortages, leading to a decline in their numbers. Once abundant, these animals, like the melodious cuckoo and scavenging vultures, are now rarely seen.
Even migratory birds are dwindling in numbers during the winter season.
Unfortunately, there is a significant lack of awareness among coastal residents regarding the plight of these creatures.
Officials from environmental organizations emphasize the urgent need for the proper implementation of the Wildlife Conservation and Safety Act of 2012, along with widespread participation and public awareness campaigns.
They attribute the decline in wildlife to factors such as deforestation, unplanned urbanization, and rampant bird poaching along the coast.
Recognizing the global importance of wildlife conservation, the United Nations designated March 3 as World Wildlife Day during its 68th general session in 2013. This day aims to raise awareness about the world's wildlife and flora, first observed in 2014.
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Bangladesh has witnessed the extinction of 31 animal species, with 390 more teetering on the brink of extinction out of its estimated 1,600 animal species.
Uncontrolled practices like laying current nets to protect fruits result in the unintended loss of innocent bird lives.
Bayezid Munshi, a data collector from the voluntary animal welfare and environmental organization "Animal Lovers of Patuakhali," highlights human ignorance as a significant factor contributing to wildlife extinction.
Superstitions drive the killing and consumption of various species, while the hunting of birds remains unchecked. Excessive pesticide use by farmers further exacerbates the issue.
Mejbah Uddin Mannu, a senior journalist specializing in environmental and animal issues, said: "In addition to deforestation, most of the houses in the villages do not have old trees and the wildlife are in crisis of existence. Everyone should create awareness to ensure the existence of these animals.”
Abul Kalam, Mahipur Range Officer of Patuakhali Coastal Forest Division, noted a yearly decline in coastal wildlife and stressed the need for increased awareness to mitigate extinction rates.
Patuakhali Deputy Conservator of Forests Md Shofiqul Islam said: “The presence of wildlife is decreasing at an alarming rate due to modern urbanization and climate change. Forests are habitats for wild animals. We are always trying to stop deforestation.”
