Human wildlife conflict is driving killings of fishing cats in Bangladesh as fear, misidentification and habitat loss threaten a key wetland predator despite growing rescue and release efforts nationwide concern.
The fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), a medium-sized wildcat vital to Bangladesh’s wetlands, is facing increasing threats from human retaliation over alleged predation on poultry and fish ponds. Conservationists warn that escalating killings could push the species toward local extinction.
Fishing cats are currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, highlighting the global importance of these conservation efforts.
Recognized for its muscular build, short rounded ears, olive-brown to grey fur, black spots and a ringed tail, the fishing cat relies on wetlands and dense vegetation near human settlements. Bangladesh is considered a key global stronghold for this species.
A study analyzing more than 360 media reports found that between 2005 and 2021, at least 160 fishing cats were killed in the country. Nearly half of these cases involved immediate retaliatory killings, often without proof of economic loss. Most incidents were linked to poultry and fish farmers.
“Fishing cats occur across almost all regions of Bangladesh except hilly areas, yet the situation is worsening,” said Muntasir Akash, co-author of the study. “Many communities kill fishing cats on sight, even when there is no evidence of loss, due to misconceptions about the species.”
The June 2025 study published in Global Ecology and Conservation reported that at least 395 adult fishing cats and 170 cubs were involved in conflict incidents. Of these, 117 were released back into the wild while 34 were relocated more than 20 kilometers to zoos or rescue centers.
“Relocating fishing cats far from conflict areas is not a sustainable solution,” Akash noted. “As human settlements expand into natural habitats, the problem persists even after relocation.”
Experts point to fear and misidentification as key drivers of killings. Many villagers mistake fishing cats for larger predators like leopards, resulting in immediate retaliatory action.
Hope in Rescue and Release Programs
Recent research from Sylhet conducted between 2020 and June 2024 shows that conflict-based rescue and release programs can be effective in the short term. Among 86 live and seven dead fishing cats recorded, cubs released within a week of rescue were successfully reunited with their mothers in 62 percent of cases.
Professor M.A. Aziz of Jahangirnagar University, co-author of the study, said, “Sylhet is a hotspot for fishing cat-human conflict. Its wetlands, partially protected forests and tea gardens provide ideal habitats. Timely rescue and release, especially of cubs, is crucial for their survival.”
He stressed that forest department capacity must be strengthened and recommended preventive measures such as fencing fish ponds and poultry farms, clearing nearby shrubs and improving lighting in settlements.
“Releasing fishing cats deep in forests is a flawed practice,” Aziz added. “They prefer wetlands and dense vegetation near human settlements, making release near conflict sites the most effective strategy.”
Long-Term Conservation Needs
While rescue efforts offer hope, experts emphasize that sustainable conservation requires widespread public awareness campaigns to reduce fear, correct misconceptions and promote coexistence. With proactive intervention, Bangladesh can protect its fishing cats while supporting the livelihoods of local communities dependent on wetlands.
“Protecting fishing cats is not just about saving a species,” said Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global. “It’s about ensuring the health of our wetlands, supporting local communities and fostering coexistence between people and nature.”
