‘Barabila’ beel woos winter tourists

Various bird species are enchanting visitors at Barabila beel, a large reservoir in the Khamarkandi Union of Sherpur Upazila in the Bogura district. 

Among them are the captivating brown ducks locally known as ‘Sarali’ or ‘Pati Sarali,’ drawing visitors to witness their graceful presence. 

These brown ducks elegantly swim in groups, creating a visual spectacle in the Barabila waters. When they take flight together, the sky is adorned with waves of gray-brown feathers, providing a unique and awe-inspiring sight that has captured the attention of both locals and visitors. In the heart of Sherpur, this natural phenomenon adds a touch of magic to the environment.

Contrary to common misconceptions, Sarali is not a migratory bird. Instead, these birds gather in ponds during the winter season, creating a hub of avian activity. The winter season sees a diverse range of bird species flocking to the ponds, attracting people of all ages from far and wide. Barabila has transformed into a popular destination, offering a fair of different bird species for enthusiasts and nature lovers to enjoy.

Pati Sarali takes center stage as the newest guest. Standing at the edge of the beel, the harmonious coexistence of nature becomes a source of fascination for onlookers. The leafy mistletoe, a rare sight in the area, adds to the uniqueness of this beel. The beel is also home to about 20-25 other bird species, including Pati Sarali Duck, Sand Duck, Jalpipi, Jalmuir, Kingfisher, Snakebird, Pankauri, Snail, Common Mayna making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Covering a significant area during the monsoon season, the beel shrinks to around 15 acres with a water depth of 3-5 feet in the summer. Despite the seasonal changes, people flock to witness the avian spectacle, especially in the winter afternoon. The beel not only hosts various bird species but also offers the sight of thousands of birds engaged in fishing activities. Compared to the previous year, there is a notable increase in the number of mother birds, with breeding activities commencing two months ago. The estimated bird population in the area is around ten thousand.

The environmentalist Voluntary Organization Sherpur Bogura plays a crucial role in raising awareness to protect the safety of wild animals, including birds, in the beel. While Pati Sarali started flocking to the beel last year, the voluntary environmental organization remains dedicated to ensuring their security. However, the beel, being a privately owned place, presents challenges in terms of conservation efforts. Previously a Haas farm, the area is now under construction by Bhaskar Agro Park, contributing to the proliferation of nature in seemingly inanimate spaces.

Individuals like Agat Mumtahina Sultana Asha, Shyamoli Akhtar Sadia, and Rezadul Haque Reza share their experiences of visiting the beel and express the joy of observing diverse bird species in a serene and natural environment. Reza, who traveled 25 kilometers from Bogura city, highlights the enchanting harmony of nature and the captivating chirping of birds at the beel's edge.

Sohag Roy Sagar, the President of the Environmental Protection Agency, sheds light on the increase in the number of mother birds this year and emphasizes the importance of creating awareness to protect the habitat. He raises concerns about potential threats from poachers and the use of pesticides in nearby crop fields, urging cooperation from relevant authorities.

Sherpur Upazila Nibahi Kamakta UNO Md. Moinlu Islam acknowledges the challenge posed by the private ownership of the beel. Despite this hurdle, efforts are underway to facilitate the free movement and habitat of birds during the winter season.

Coordination with the upazila animal resources aims to normalize the movement of birds and contribute to wildlife sanctuaries and environmental conservation in the area.