PELICAN

Pelicans were once commonly found in the wetlands of Bangladesh, including the Padma-Jamuna estuary and other areas in the floodplain. These birds, characterized by their white feathers and large throat pouch used to catch fish, were a common sight fishing in groups and nesting in colonies on large trees. However, with the decline of fish populations and the degradation of their habitats, the number of pelicans in Bangladesh has decreased.

Despite being among the largest birds in the world, pelicans are not skilled hunters and instead rely on their large pouch to scoop up water and fish. Of the eight species of pelicans found globally, three species were once found in Bengal, including the Great White Pelican, Spot-billed Pelican, and the Dalmatian Pelican.

Pelicans have been around for over 20 million years and are a remarkable species that has adapted to their environment over time. While their population has declined in Bangladesh, they still exist in neighboring countries where their habitats remain relatively untouched.

Crow

Crows, members of the Corvus genus, are known for their distinctive black feathers. In Bangladesh, they are a common bird species found throughout the country. They belong to the same family as the jackdaw and carrion crow, and are usually slimmer in build, with glossy black plumage on the forehead, crown, throat, and upper breast. The neck and breast are lighter grey-brown in color, while the wings, tail, and legs are black. The thickness of the bill and the depth of color can vary among regional populations.

Bulbul

The bulbul is a bird found in the family Pycnonotidae and is part of the order Passeriformes. They are known for their moderate size, gregarious behavior, and soft, fluffy plumage that is mostly dull in color. These birds have short to medium length, slightly curved bills, short and weak legs, and short and rounded wings, with a comparatively long tail. In Bangladesh, there are 11 species of bulbul under six genera, including the White-throated, Ashy, Black, Mountain, Olive, Black-headed, Red-vented, Flavescent, Red-whiskered, Black-crested, and Crested Finch-bill bulbul. These birds feed on fruits, nectar, berries, and insects, and they have both harsh call notes and musical calls.

Dove

The Dove, known as Ghughu in Bangladesh, is a common bird that holds a special place in the hearts of many Bangladeshis. Despite facing danger in recent times, the Dove continues to be considered a symbol of the country. The phrase “Ghughu dekheso, Ghughur faad dekhoni” highlights the elusive nature of the bird and its ability to evade danger.

The Dove is a graceful bird, with a long and slender body, measuring between 28 to 32 cm in length. It has a light chocolate and fawn colored back, wings and tail. During flight, it displays black flight feathers with a light grey edge, and a white tail quill. Both males and females look similar, with juveniles being slightly duller in color. The head and under parts are pinkish, blending into light grey on the face and lower belly. The legs of the Dove are a pale pink color.

Doves primarily feed on grass seeds, grains and other plant-based foods, with some reports of them eating insects as well. They are known for their cooing calls, which are low and gentle, and have a two or three syllable rhythm. The Dove is commonly referred to as the “Bird of Peace” due to its peaceful demeanor and serene presence.

Kingfisher

In Bangladesh, kingfishers are a common sight in many of the country’s diverse habitats, including wetlands, rivers, and forests. These birds play an important role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystem by feeding on fish, insects, and other small aquatic creatures. In addition, their bright and distinctive plumage makes them a popular sighting for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

However, due to habitat destruction, degradation, and pollution, the population of kingfishers in Bangladesh has been declining in recent years. Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats and conserve these magnificent birds for future generations to enjoy.

Kingfishers can be found throughout the year in Bangladesh and their presence is considered an indicator of a healthy and thriving ecosystem. These birds are also considered valuable for their cultural significance, as they have been mentioned in various local folklore and legends. Overall, kingfishers are an important part of Bangladesh’s rich biodiversity and contribute to the country’s unique and diverse natural heritage.

Pigeon

The domestic pigeon (Columba livia domestica), also known as the rock pigeon, is a subspecies that is native to the world. It is widely considered to be the first bird ever to be domesticated, with evidence of its domestication dating back to over 5000 years ago. In Bangladesh, these pigeons can be seen in many parts of the country, and they are often used in racing competitions due to their remarkable homing ability. These birds are capable of returning to their home loft even if they are released in a location they have never been to before, which could be up to 1000 km away. This incredible ability is the result of a unique combination of two distinct senses - a “map sense” that helps them understand their geographic location and a “compass sense” that guides them back to their home loft.

Black Drongo

The black drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus) is a small Asian passerine bird of the drongo family Dicruridae. It is a common resident breeder in much of tropical southern Asia from southwest Iran through India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka east to southern China and Indonesia and accidental visitor of Japan. It is an all black bird with a distinctive forked tail and measures 28 cm (11 in) in length. It feeds on insects, and is common in open agricultural areas and light forest throughout its range, perching conspicuously on a bare perch or along power or telephone lines.

The black drongo is listed as least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) on the IUCN Red List, due to its large range and relative commonness. It has been introduced to some Pacific islands, where it has thrived and become abundant to the point of threatening and causing the extinction of native and endemic bird species there.

Source Of Data And Reference Images

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