The Capped Langur one of the most affected species, has seen 40% of its population impacted. Similarly, 6.25% Fishing Cat, 11% Monkey, 34% Parrot, 9.6% Myna are impacted
A recent report by Bengal Discover, Silent Victims of New Bangladesh – Wildlife in the Crosshairs, has unveiled a concerning rise in wildlife crime and human-wildlife conflicts across Bangladesh, said a press release. Bengal Discover, Bengal Discover is a research organization and also a conservation media.
The findings highlight an escalating threat to the country’s biodiversity, driven by illegal poaching, habitat destruction, habitat fragmentation, mob killings, the pet trade, human fear and misconceptions, hunting for recreational purposes, and increased human interference in natural ecosystems. The report, based on incidents recorded between August and December 2024, presents an alarming picture of the state of wildlife conservation in the country.
According to the report, a total of 3,304 wildlife were affected in just five months, showing a sharp upward trend.
The number rose from 44 in August to 443 in September, followed by 604 in October. November saw a slight dip with 497 wildlife affected, but December recorded a dramatic peak with 1,716. The data reflects an increasing intensity of threats to wildlife, with trafficking, poaching, and human-wildlife conflicts playing major roles in these numbers.
The report also sheds light on the geographical distribution of these incidents, with the Chittagong division emerging as the most affected region. With its rich biodiversity, Chittagong has become a prime target for poachers and wildlife traffickers. Dhaka, being a major urban center, follows as another critical hotspot for illegal wildlife activities, particularly in trafficking networks. Other regions such as Rajshahi and Khulna also reported significant cases.
Among the affected species, mammals accounted for the highest proportion (37%).
Elephants facing crisis
Elephants are severely impacted, representing 12.5% of affected mammal species. Elephant killings are frequently reported in Chittagong and Sherpur. Human-elephant conflicts are especially concerning around the Korean Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) in Anowara, Chattogram.
In September, following the deaths of five people due to such conflicts, local communities demanded the removal of elephants, while environmentalists stressed the urgent need to protect elephant habitats and implement sustainable solutions.
A crisis for Mammals, Birds and Reptiles
The Capped Langur (Mukhpora Hanuman), one of the most affected species, has seen 40% of its population impacted. Similarly, 6.25% Fishing Cat, 11% Monkey, 34% Parrot, 9.6% Myna are impacted while reptiles are not exempt from the crisis as Turtles are facing the most severe decline among reptiles, with a staggering 94% of their population, Pythons and Asian Water Monitor Lizards are also suffering due to habitat loss and relentless poaching, which has placed these species at significant risk of extinction.
During the assessment period, a total of 269 wildlife deaths were recorded, of which 53 were confirmed as cases of deliberate killing. This indicates that 19.70% of the total wildlife deaths resulted from intentional harm. Additionally, wildlife deaths accounted for 8.14% of the total affected wildlife population, highlighting the extent of mortality among impacted species.
The report underscores Bangladesh’s commitments to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14 (Life Below Water) and Goal 15 (Life on Land). Urgent action is needed to achieve the targets set by the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) and the Bangladesh Elephant Conservation Action Plan (BECAP).
The study also suggests including habitat restoration, scientific awareness, community Involvement, stronger law enforcement, conflict mitigation, monitoring and assessment to save wildlife.
It emphasizes the immediate need for conservation strategies to mitigate these growing threats. Strengthening wildlife protection laws, enforcing stricter anti-trafficking regulations, and raising awareness among local communities are some of the key measures that need to be prioritized. The report highlights the necessity of sustainable habitat management to prevent further encroachment and reduce conflicts.
Speaking on the findings, Aminul Islam Mithu, Team Lead and Chief executive of Bengal Discover, stated, “The rise in wildlife crimes and conflicts is alarming. If immediate action is not taken, many species in Bangladesh will continue to face the risk of extinction. We must act now to protect our biodiversity before it is too late.”
