Nature Quest: Songs of seclusion

Every morning a sweet cacophony of songs signals the rise of the sun in a corner of Saheber Haat village under Barisal Sadar upazila. This nook is the famous "Banik Bari", the origins of the moniker "village of birds" as the village has come to be known.

"Seven to eight years ago, I saw a group of birds sitting on my trees, building their nests," Sumitra Banik, 52, a house wife and the owner of the residence, said. "The wild birds come around Baisakh and live here for six months. During this time they lay their eggs and the mothers leave when the babies can fly," she told The Daily Star.

The birds even attract the elusive large Indian civet. Sumitra and her family though stand as guardians, protecting the creatures. Over a 100 birds call 'Banik Bari' their home with species ranging from herons, Pankouris and even ducks (baliha).   

The birds draw many visitors and the villagers steadfastly offer their protection and ensure the birds live in peace. Children are also charmed by the presence of such sweet feathered friends.

"Such wild birds can play a vital role in environment protection which can influence food production," said Abul Kalam, District Forest Officer, Barisal.