An injured crested serpent eagle was rescued in Bogura through swift community action, a 999 call and joint efforts by the Forest Department and environmental groups in Bangladesh on Monday.
An injured crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela), locally known as the kura eagle, was rescued from Vitapara village in Kichok Union of Shibganj Upazila in Bogura on Monday afternoon.
The rescue highlights the importance of community awareness, rapid response services and cooperation between local residents, environmental organizations and government authorities in protecting Bangladesh’s wildlife. Crested serpent eagles play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance, making their conservation essential for local biodiversity.
The bird, found with head and leg injuries near a pond, was spotted by local resident Ershadul Islam around noon. Concerned for its safety, he immediately contacted Bangladesh’s emergency helpline 999. The call triggered a coordinated rescue involving the Forest Department’s Wildlife Crime Control Unit and the Environmental Protection Organization (EPO) in Bogura. The operation was led by EPO President Sohag Ray Sagar and member Khairul Islam Sakib, with support from local environmental enthusiasts and Assistant Professor Muha Shahidul Islam.
After being rescued, the eagle was transferred to the Social Forestry Division in Bogura under the supervision of Range Officer Md Motlobur Rahman for medical care. Dulal Saha, Bogura Sadar Range Officer, confirmed that the bird sustained injuries to its legs. “We are hopeful that after treatment, this majestic bird will soar again in the wild,” he said.
Local conservationist Sohag Ray described the eagle as being roughly the size of a vulture, with dark brown wings that appear almost black from a distance. Its head, neck and throat are pale brown, gradually darkening toward the chest. The tail is mostly black with a broad white band in the middle. Its hooked beak and strong, curved talons are well adapted for hunting prey. Female eagles are larger than males, he added.
