Grassroots volunteers and forest officials in northern Bangladesh have sharply reduced bird poaching in Sherpur through rescues, patrols and community awareness, protecting migratory and threatened species over the past decade.
Bird poaching in Sherpur district in northern Bangladesh has declined dramatically over the past several years thanks to sustained efforts by local volunteers and forest officials. The Sherpur Bird Conservation Society, a grassroots organisation formed in 2018, has led patrols, rescues and awareness campaigns to protect the region’s rich birdlife.
Over the past eight years, the society has rescued more than 2,000 birds from hunters and released them into forests and wetlands. Rescued species include kites, owls, falcons, teals, vultures, water hens and the Indian spotted eagle. Many are migratory or threatened, highlighting the ecological importance of Sherpur, which lies at the foothills of the Garo Hills and along the old Brahmaputra River.
“Bird hunting has largely stopped in most parts of Sherpur. Only a few poachers remain and we continue our efforts through monitoring and community engagement,” said Sujoy Malakar Joy, founder and president of the society.
Forest officials confirm the impact of the volunteer group. Muhammad Abdullah Al Amin, wildlife ranger at the Sherpur Wildlife Management and Nature Conservation Division, said the society’s work, combined with Forest Department support, has been crucial in reducing illegal hunting.
A key factor in the society’s success has been involving the local community, especially those who previously depended on bird hunting for income. Rafiq Mia, a former poacher from Pakhuria village, now works with the society and earns a living by rearing ducks with support from volunteers.
Founded by a group of like-minded teenagers nearly four decades ago, Sujoy’s conservation journey began in 1988 with small campaigns on birds, wildlife and tree planting. The formal establishment of the Sherpur Bird Conservation Society in 2018 allowed the group to expand its focus to elephants, monkeys, porcupines and forest protection, while also taking stands against deforestation and habitat loss.
The society now has around 60 active volunteers, including students, professors, farmers and local workers. Their work extends beyond rescues and patrols. They organise school-based bird festivals, wildlife awareness seminars and community meetings to educate people about the ecological benefits of birds and other wildlife.
Their efforts have been recognised nationally. In 2025, the society received the National Wildlife Conservation Award, the first organisation from Sherpur to receive such recognition. They have also been honoured at academic bird fairs and by environmental foundations.
Despite these successes, challenges remain. Volunteers operate largely without funding and threats from habitat loss, wetland encroachment and occasional resistance from local settlers continue. Forest officials note that the society’s field knowledge and commitment often surpass that of trained personnel, demonstrating the power of grassroots conservation.
Looking ahead, the society plans to conduct an elephant census in the Garo Hills to reduce human-elephant conflict. By assessing population needs and restoring natural habitats, they hope to prevent elephants from straying into villages.
“Our work is for all living beings,” said Sujoy. “Protecting birds, forests and wetlands is essential for ecological balance and coexistence. We want to inspire future generations to continue this work and leave behind a better world.”
