Natureholic

Winged Reverie: A Symphony of Avian Wonders at Indian River Inlet, Delaware

2024-02-09T06:48:00.001+06:00

Embarking on a birding journey to Indian River Inlet, Delaware, felt like a pilgrimage to a hotspot nestled in the heart of the first state. The drive from Philadelphia was not just a journey; it was a prelude to a wintery morning filled with avian wonders. As the coastal landscape unfolded before me, Indian River Inlet revealed itself as the perfect starting point for my birding escapade. A haven for Purple Sandpipers during late fall to early spring, this locale held promises of encounters with a diverse array of sea ducks. The cast included the elegant long-tailed duck, surf scoters, common eider, and the elusive harlequin duck – a rare treat for any birder's eyes.

My senses were heightened as common loons graced the scene, engaged in a mesmerizing dance of fishing near the river bank. Their feast on crabs unfolded like a ballet, captivating not only my eyes but also the watchful gaze of buffleheads, enchanted by the spectacle.

The symphony of nature continued as cormorants gracefully soared over the bridge, while a regal Bald Eagle adorned the blue sky, adding a majestic touch to the avian panorama. It was a day not just to watch birds but to celebrate the sheer beauty of life. Under the expansive blue sky, I felt a profound sense of freedom and appreciation for the wonders that nature generously shares. Life, indeed, is exquisite beneath the open heavens, an experience that never fails to uplift my spirit.

A Delightful Day at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge

2024-02-07T08:17:00.004+06:00

Last Sunday, I had the incredible opportunity to witness the elusive American Bittern, a secretive marsh heron and a species classified as endangered, at the enchanting Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge in Delaware. The wildlife drive through the park during the golden hours of the day was truly a mesmerizing experience, heightened by the delightful combination of the scenic drive and the refreshing breeze.

The captivating moment that made my day occurred as we meandered along the Delaware Bay shorelines. Amidst the serene surroundings, a pair of American Bitterns graced us with their presence. This encounter marked my first time observing these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.

Having ventured to various parks and refuges in search of the elusive American Bittern, the culmination of this quest at Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge was a rewarding and unforgettable experience. The tranquil beauty of the refuge, combined with the joy of discovering such a rare and endangered species, made for a weekend drive that will linger in my memories for a long time.

Our drive through the scenic refuge was a birdwatcher's paradise. Charming woodpeckers added bursts of color, while Snow Geese and elegant egrets graced the landscape. Ducks glided serenely on the water, and raptors soared majestically overhead. Each turn revealed a new avian wonder, creating an enchanting and memorable wildlife experience.

The allure of nature, the scenic drive, and the encounter with the American Bittern created a perfect blend, turning a simple weekend drive into an extraordinary wildlife adventure.

Promoting Environmental Responsibility in Tourism and Conservation in Bangladesh

2017-07-07T00:30:00.007+06:00

It is imperative to nurture a collective responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness and health of our natural surroundings. How can we effectively educate our communities and travelers to foster a deep respect for our natural resources and actively contribute to their conservation? This responsibility extends beyond the government alone. As responsible travelers, each individual can play a vital role in safeguarding our national parks and enhancing our rich biodiversity. It doesn't demand a top-tier education or extensive training; it's about exercising common sense. The commendable appreciation our country's travelers demonstrate towards nature is heartening. Platforms like Facebook groups such as Travelers of Bangladesh and Tour Group BD serve as recognized forums where tourists, irrespective of age, share pertinent information and even organize tours spanning the entire country and beyond. Leveraging these opportunities, we can disseminate critical ecological insights among fellow wanderers, encouraging them to propagate this knowledge at the community level. Given the increasing number of individuals exploring the remotest parts of the country, venturing into the wilderness, and uncovering novel destinations, it becomes crucial to glean ecological sensitivity from local communities and disseminate this understanding among fellow travelers. A simple addition of one or two sentences in a post can make a significant impact. Our Mother Nature has endowed us with unparalleled ecological diversity, and it is within our capacity to do more for her. In this era of technological revolution, social media emerges as a valuable tool for knowledge exchange, fostering a heightened awareness of environmental conservation practices. Reflecting on personal experiences visiting national parks and refuges in North America, where self-payment for entrance fees was required, has underscored the positive impact of a well-established system. Observing people willingly paying without hesitation serves as a testament to the ingrained understanding of environmental responsibility. In the United States, where only 20% pursue higher education after high school, an impressive 95% are cognizant of proper conduct within National Parks. Instances of littering, such as throwing plastic items into the woods or out of car windows, are virtually non-existent. This prompts us to broaden our conversations to encompass the critical realm of environmental conservation, fostering a commitment to maintaining clean and healthy forests that enhance the overall visitor experience.

Puerto Rican Avifauna

2017-02-21T23:31:00.001+06:00

Puerto Rican Avifauna

Mountain Stream Enroute to Paro Chu (River)

2017-02-21T23:18:00.000+06:00

Sajek, Khagrachari Hill Tracts

2017-02-21T22:41:00.003+06:00

Khagrachari Hill Tracts, the southeastern part of Bangladesh, also known as the 'Chengmi' state, is around 270 km from Dhaka and 2000 ft above sea level. As one of the country's most picturesque landscapes, hundreds of local and regional tourists travel there to enjoy its vast lush greenery. Our second objective of this trip was to listen to the soothing music of nature. Sajek, the most visited place there, is still 40 km away from the so-called minimum services for human survival (running water, electricity, etc.). However, that's the reason some greenery is still preserved. Considering its high value, miles after miles of teak plantation are taking over the natural forest covers. It was visible that to meet the tourists' needs, local influential people are logging trees and building new guest houses. I was surprised to see an elementary school powered by solar energy to run computers, motors, bulbs, and others.

The valley embraces three great mountain rivers - Chengi, Kasalong, and Maini. Due to security concerns and some military restrictions, I could only see the Chengi and a couple of streams inflowing water into it. The beautiful land of clouds, Sajek Valley, where clouds ☁️ from the Himalayan mountains get stuck as they flow downwind towards the Bay of Bengal. In any monsoon of my life, I'll walk on the cloudscape there 😄😄😄.

"Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storms, but to add color to my sunset sky." - Rabindranath Tagore.

The Magnetism of Spring in Bangladesh

2014-03-18T10:27:00.003+06:00

Spring brings freshness to all aspects of life. "Pohela Falgun," the first day of spring, is a traditional festival in Bangladesh. Tuning into the colorful life with the flavor of spring is the festival theme. Bangladesh experiences six distinctive seasons in a calendar year, and Falgun marks the beginning month of the Bengali calendar.

Likings, favoritism, and fondness differ from person to person, species to species, and culture to culture. Plants, birds, insects, and the landscape of our villages come alive with a new blush. There is a unique blend in the rural structure of Bangladesh; residents come from different mindsets, residing together with diverse cultural, religious, and educational backgrounds. The originality of this season conveys harmony among all lives, regardless of religion, literacy, and societal standing. The varied season of 'Spring' is the most colorful and enthralling segment of the calendar year. The rural landscape begins transforming its facade with an incredible array of colors. The changes at this moment are unmistakably observable.

Shimul flowers (Bombax ceiba), symbolizing Spring in Bangladesh, enhance the rural landscape.

Shimul flower (Bombax ceiba), symbol of Spring in Bangladesh

The rural landscape:

Home - The RSPB Community

2013-12-14T12:44:00.001+06:00

Home - The RSPB Community

Birds - January 2013 Album

2013-12-07T15:02:00.004+06:00

I was contemplating sharing something after a prolonged, unintended disconnection from my page. Here, I'm posting some older yet vibrant snapshots from my albums.

Reflection - Intermediate Egret gently waiting for food

In the initial week of January 2013, we ventured out of the city to break free from the monotony. Our underlying purpose was to explore one of the country's wetlands, where we anticipated encountering migratory birds and immersing ourselves in the splendid countryside scenery.

Bronze-winged Jacana

We were fortunate to witness the genuine hues of the morning, memories of which will linger with us for a lifetime. Although I've previously shared a story from that same day, I couldn't resist sharing a second version. It was a day filled with thrills and excitement, as we observed thousands of birds soaring and circling above us in the blue sky.

A flock of Indian pond heron

Little Cormorant having breakfast

A simple piece of evident of the mangrove desertification process.

2013-05-15T12:45:00.001+06:00

No big trees (matured plant) were found within a couple of miles in Eastern Sundarbans located in Bagerhat district of Bangladesh except some saplings and scattered bushes. Human greediness has assimilated significant portion of that mangrove forest in only two decades. Local forward-looking fifty years old Mr. Mokshed, inhabit just on the bank of Vola river which is bordering the elusive forest with the neighborhood, allude that we had such a green and bloodcurdling forest during our childhood. Our local companion named 'Nasir' piteously gave his view that 'Sir, you can fit in a couple of your Dhaka City here where there are no trees at all (completely open land)". Mr. Nasir, who is part of the nasty exercise involved in forest cutting regretted about his work, added that the woods would not exist for long unless concerned people take immediate action to protect it. Nasir continued showing animosity; local influential will grab even this woodland in a while.

A sign a misfortune

We seven peoples were on a half day long short trip to this said part of the Sundarban in last March 2013. It was distressing to observe such a silence mass, which took only couple of decades. Personally I have seen significant parts of this majestic mangrove forest, but never been this much displeased before. The rate of deforestation is far-reaching and might not be possible to recover ever by not only our generation but also next as well.

Cattle rearing is commonly practiced in the buffer zone

Of course, there are some amendments in mind-set of local inhabitants taking place. Recent stroked cyclone and regular small scale surges have impacted a lot to alter their attitude. Also, small scale awareness campaigns being organized to improve people knowledge but those are not merely adequate to project our heritage.

Freshly logged tree

Invasive plant embracing Sundarban rapidly.

Rapture on Flight in Sundarban

Birds from the Bank of Vola River

Improving the capacity of Forest Department and amending their outlook is inevitable to conserve out invaluable resource. As responsible party for forest protection, their efficiency needs to be enhanced.

The question is – “when we will wake up? When this carelessness will be clogged?”

Comprehensive Communal Climate Change Adaptation practice - A PPPP Approach

2013-05-08T17:03:00.004+06:00

Community Risk Assessment - A study on local vulnerability analysis

Local Disaster Risk Reduction Action Plan has been developed based on CRA output. Re-excavation of a dead canal located in Amorbunia of Nishanbaria union was proposed by the UP member, consequently UDMC and BDPC jointly started ground work to raise the required fund. The necessitation was justified through frequent field visit and open group discussion with inhabitants of surrounding area. Amorbunia’s canal faced sediment build up from last two decades, consequently there was no water flowing through it which not only reduced fish production but also hampered the canal ecosystem.

Meeting with local people

A number of group meeting took place in advance of excavation work to build consensus among all partners. After reaching a memorandum, the re-excavation work start on 21 March 2012 where Additional Secretary of Government of Bangladesh inaugurate the programme in presence of hundreds of local community people.

To accomplish East Amorbunia Canal Re-Excavation Program in Nishanbaria Union of MorrelganjUpazila, five parties collaborated directly:

MorrelganjUpazila Disaster Management Committee (UzDMC)
Nishanbaria Union Disaster Management Committee (UDMC)
Comprehensive Disaster Management Program (CDMP)
Bangladesh Disaster Preparedness Centre and (BDPC)
Local Canal Re-excavation Facilitation Committee

Community representative along with guests inaugurated the re-excavation programme

Roughly 2000 families including land owners, day labors and local crop dealers directly getting benefit directly from this canal. Plus, thousands of farm animals will have a fresh water source during dry season (surrounding communities face severe fresh water scarcity during winter season). Local dwellers currently harvest one crop per annum, only the ‘Aman’ season and rest of the period entire field remains unproductive because of water shortage. Nearby water bodies are unusable because of salinity. Therefore, this confined water reservoir can ensure irrigation during dry season. Local residents took the initiative to extract groundwater for irrigation purposes in the past but failed. Concern exists within some locals who consider the water to be contaminated and unusable. The more financially fortunate of the area have failed to utilize the opportunity to build deep tube-wells that would have benefited all residents.

Under the Christian Aid UK funded project, BDPC re-excavated a total of 840 feet out of 3000 feet in the year 2012. The rest of the part were excavated by Union Parishod (lowest administrative unit) in collaboration with CDMP-2, funded by UNDP. Key tangible advantages for community from this endeavor include:

Irrigation during dry season
Increased crop production
Fish cultivation in canal water
Earthen road through canal bank
Reduced crop transportation cost
Fresh drinkable water for livestock
Tree plantation on both sides of the canal

During Excavation

Key intangible improvements include:

Canal ecosystem restoration
Improved water quality
Reduced seasonal unemployment
Increased scope for employment
Improved aesthetic value
Scope for ecotourism

Later, after re-excavation, some interested government departments offered their services for the betterment of local community. Some examples of which include:

Forest Department has planted more than 8000 seedlings on the canal banks.
Department of Fisheries released 450 kilograms of fish fry.
Department of Agriculture Extension has disbursed seeds among 40 poor farmers (05-10 kg per family).

After Excavation

During the dry season of 2013, farmers numbering in the hundreds have cultivated crops on their fields. According to locals, the number of farmers tripled from last year. The canal has provided these farmers with a source of easy and reliable irrigation and they are expecting that during the peak of the dry season there would be around 3-5 feet of saline free water available in their canal.

The local community has established a multipurpose cooperation society, “East Amorbunia Multipurpose Cooperation Society” to preserve the canal not only for themselves but also for the next generation. Currently, there are 87 members involved in this newly established institution and more are expected to join within a short time. They have been planning to invest in this canal to ensure its multipurpose use.

An Amazing Encounter with Vine Snake

2013-01-27T00:04:00.002+06:00

Suddenly, I was beckoned by my junior and local guide, Shakil Pamthet, who urged me to witness some activity in the bushes along the trail in Lawachara National Park. It turned out to be an enlightening day for observing biodiversity. Shakil then whispered that there was a green snake silently devouring something. Intrigued, I approached a hedge plant for a better view. It was a green vine snake, a common mildly venomous native reptile found throughout Bangladesh. As I inched closer, I realized the six-foot-long slender green tree snake was engrossed in consuming its prey, a skink. Although the skink's body was only halfway visible from my vantage point, I could see the snake's lower jaw, with its backward-curving teeth, gripping the prey and slowly pulling it forward into the esophagus and digestive tract.

I positioned myself within two feet of the vine snake and captured the enthralling moment with more than fifty clicks. Witnessing snakes in the semi-evergreen hill forest is not uncommon. We've encountered various snakes in different locations, with a couple of experiences being perilous and electrifying. However, the shared story was particularly fascinating due to its timing and eventfulness. Grateful to Shakil and Atik for accompanying me during this memorable encounter.

A Magnificent start of 213: Bird-watching at Baikka Beal

2013-01-14T01:58:00.002+06:00

It was amazing start of 2013. I, along with my bosom companion have started our New Year journey with the bird-watching (certainly recreational) at Baikka Beal (wetland) in Sreemongol (North-eastern Bangladesh). The morning of 2nd January 2013 was astonishing. Opportunely, that morning was less misty and the surrounding weather was obliging. Within only three hours, I found more than 500 snaps in my memory cards. There were millions of birds of around fifty different species. I was surprised, as I never seen that much flying exquisiteness together in past. There were so many kinds of them, from common kingfisher to rare oriental darter. To some extent, the sunlight was also favorable and luckily we had couple hour’s long small wooden boat journey through the wetland after the birds. One local guide, who knows almost all the birds like a father, accompanied us at that magnificent morning.

Common Hoopoe, My love bird

2012-03-20T00:33:00.001+06:00

This is one of my most loving birds occur in Bangladesh.

Kuakata Sea-beach

2011-12-26T01:14:00.001+06:00

The lonely boat in the sea

Local tourists at sea-beach

Wetland-The Arial Beel

2011-12-26T00:56:00.001+06:00

Wetland-Arial Beel has unique characteristics: it is distinguished from other water bodies or landforms based on the water level and on the types of plants that thrive within it. Specifically, Arial Beel is characterized as wetlands because of having a water table that stands at or near the land surface for a long enough season each year to support aquatic plants. Put simply; wetlands are areas made up of hydric soil.

The value of the Arial Beel is increasingly receiving due attention as it contributes to a healthy environment in many ways. This wetland retains water during dry periods, thus keeping the water table high and relatively stable. During times of flooding, they mitigate floods and trap suspended solids and attached nutrients. Thus, streams flowing into lakes by way of wetland areas will transport fewer suspended solids and nutrients to the lakes than if they flow directly into the lakes. The removal of such wetland systems because of urbanization or other factors typically causes lake water quality to worsen. Also, the wetland is important as feeding and breeding areas for wildlife and provides a stopping place and refuge for waterfowls. As with any natural habitat, wetlands are important in supporting species diversity and have a complex of wetland values.

Pre-monsoon Brick Production

2011-06-24T12:12:00.001+06:00

Picture: Brick kilns around Turag river, Ashulia, Dhaka, Bangladesh. April 2011

The brick industry is on the rise around Dhaka city, with several hundred brick kilns producing millions of bricks for development. Despite governmental rules and regulations, these industry owners continue to use environmentally harmful fuels such as used tires, plastic, and used oil, leading to severe environmental pollution. Additionally, these brick kilns contribute to deforestation, as trees from homesteads and roadsides are indiscriminately cut down to meet the industry's demands. A lack of effective monitoring allows kiln owners to encroach on land, including areas near rivers like Turag and Buriganga. The bricks, made from soil, utilize tons of sediments brought by the Turag River each year from larger rivers like Brahmaputra, Meghna, and Buriganga, resulting in further environmental impact. It is crucial for concerned departments to strengthen their monitoring systems and promptly enforce laws to prevent a hazardous future.

Bandarban Hill tract (May 2011)

2011-05-21T02:12:00.001+06:00

Conservation and the sustainable use of biodiversity are essential for ecologically sustainable development. Biodiversity is an integral part of our daily lives and livelihoods, providing resources crucial for the well-being of families, communities, nations, and future generations. The diversity of life forms is vital in meeting human needs, offering a wide range of options for sustainable economic activities, supporting human welfare, and facilitating adaptation to change. The loss of biodiversity carries significant economic and social costs for any country.

Recently, I participated in a field trip alongside some fellow classmates and our educator. This trip to Bandarban was part of our academic requirements, allowing us to witness firsthand the biological changes occurring in Bangladesh. Accompanied by our esteemed instructor, Mr. Kamrul Hasan, a professor at Independent University Bangladesh, we explored various biologically enriched locations within the greater Bandarban administrative district in the Chittagong division of Bangladesh. In this district, 30 tribal groups inhabit the area, with the 'Marma' being the largest ethnic group.

Sites Visited:

Milonchori: approximately 7 km away from Bandarban town
Nilgiri: (N 22°54.744 and E 92°19.517) 48 km away from Bandarban town
Chimbuk: 30 km away from Bandarban town
Shoilo Propat: around 12 km away from Bandarban town
Park Meghla: 30 minutes' drive from Bandarban town
Dudpukuriya-Dhopachori Wildlife Sanctuary: (N 22°18.656 and E 92°09.138) – one hour's drive from town
Buddhist Temple: 20 minutes' drive from town
Sangu River: flowing through the entire hill tracts region

Nature-holic's Logo

2011-05-07T14:40:00.001+06:00

Whimbrel (N. phaeopus)

2011-04-27T15:34:00.003+06:00

The Whimbrel is another frequently observed winter visitor in Bangladesh, found along the entire coast, much like the Eurasian Curlew. It possesses a shorter, two-toned bill with a kink compared to the Curlew and has a smaller body size. Globally, the IUCN classifies this bird as a species of least concern. The Whimbrel measures 37–45 centimeters (15–18 inches) in length, often seen walking along riverbanks or coasts in groups of 4-5 individuals, searching for prey such as crabs or other invertebrates. It breeds in Europe, Asia, and Africa. These photos were captured on January 1, 2011, from the Bank of Kalagachi, West Sundarban Wildlife Sanctuary, Bangladesh.

Eurasian Curlew

2011-02-02T23:29:00.004+06:00

The Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata) is recognized by its lengthy, down-curved two-toned bill. These winter visitor birds are abundantly present and frequently observed along the entire coast of Bangladesh, although they do not breed in this region. As the largest wader in its range, the Eurasian Curlew measures 50–57 cm in length with a wingspan of 1 m. The IUCN has categorized this bird as near threatened. A recent study indicates an 80% decline in the breeding population in Ireland. These photos were captured on December 30, 2010, from the bank of the Maloncho River, West Sundarban Sanctuary, Bangladesh.

The Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia)

2011-01-10T00:34:00.000+06:00

Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia) found in almost all forest cover in Bangladesh. Their distinctive call heard around South Asia. Common Iora's size like a house sparrow. Breeds after monsoon and their food items are insects, small fruits etc. They build their nest like cup-shaped.

Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos)

2011-01-09T23:43:00.000+06:00

Common Sandpiper, such a widespread birds found in more than 159 countries. A adult bird 18-22 cm, feed on insect, crustaceans and other invertebrates and breeds during winter. Common Sandpiper catch insects on flight and build their nest near fresh water. They are winter visitor in Bangladesh.

Photos are taken from Bank of Chuna river, Sundarban West Wildlife Sanctuary, Bangladesh on 30th December 2010.

Common Redshank (Tringa totanus)

2011-01-08T23:42:00.000+06:00

Redshank is a very common widespread bird around the globe. Redshanks breed in appropriate habitat in Europe and across central Asia into western China. It is very noisy and seems to act as a sentinel for other wader species.

Redshanks usually build their nest in any wetland, from damp meadows to salt marsh, often at high densities. They lay 3-5 eggs.

Size: 28 cm Food: insects, spiders, worms, molluscs

Photos are taken from bank of Malancho river, Sundarban West Wildlife Sanctuary, Bangladesh on 30th December 2010.

Striated Heron (Butorides striata)

2011-01-08T00:17:00.000+06:00

Striated Heron also known as little heron, mangrove heron or green backed heron.
Widespread in Asia,Africa,South America and Australia

Diet-Feeds on fishes, crustaceans, insects and other small animals. Has been recorded using insects as bait for attracting fishes.
Breeding-Breeds alone or in small groups (rarely in large colonies). Breeding-season varies. The typically 2-5 eggs are laid in a well-hidden nest placed low in trees, bushes or mangrove.
Photos are taken from Posur tola khal (A channel from Chuna river), Sundarban west, Sathkhira district, Khiulna on 30 December 2010.