Photo: TDM
The Hooded Pitta, locally known as Khairamatha Shumcha, is an uncommon bird species that is rarely observed. However, a migratory Hooded Pitta was recently sighted in the Chattogram Hill Tracts region. Specifically, it was spotted in the hilly forests of Dighinala in Khagrachari, where it typically breeds. Once the chicks are capable of flying, the Hooded Pittas do not establish a permanent residence in the area and migrate elsewhere.
Khaira Matha Shumcha can be found wandering through the dense foliage of the Khagrachari hilly forest. Their presence is announced by their delightful melodies. These birds possess exquisite beauty, gracefully navigating through the thick undergrowth. The migratory birds hatch in hill forests, and their juvenile chicks eagerly follow their mother's lead. Occasionally, they can be seen perching on tree branches or venturing into the lush green grass. The young ones display a sense of independence, often exploring their surroundings on their own.
During heavy rainfall, the male and female Hooded Pittas tirelessly gather food for their chicks. They diligently search the moist soil for earthworms, which they promptly deliver to the hungry mouths of their offspring. The chicks, just a few days old, receive nourishment directly from their mother's beak.
Khaira Shumcha, also known as Pitta Sordida, boasts a smaller head compared to the Shalik species. They measure approximately 19cm in length and have vibrant green bodies, accentuated by a black neck, throat, and cheeks.
Their eyes possess a deep brown hue, while their beaks and wings showcase a striking black coloration. The bright blue wings are complemented by black legs. The juvenile Shumcha birds exhibit remarkable brilliance in their coloration, with brown bellies and brown eyes.
Khaira Shumcha birds primarily forage for insects in the understory of evergreen forests. They establish their nests within these forests and typically lay a clutch of two to five eggs.
Sabuj Chakma, an avid photographer from Khagrachari, remarks, "The migratory Khaira Matha Shumcha bird has been sighted in various locations of Khagrachari this year. Although they are known to migrate, their presence in our region is quite noteworthy."
Apart from Bangladesh, these birds inhabit various regions worldwide, including India, Indonesia, Nepal, Bhutan, Malaysia, China, Vietnam, and Myanmar. In Bangladesh, they venture out during the summer months, if they do.
In the book "Bangladesh Flora and Fauna," published by the Asiatic Society in 2009, the Shumcha bird is described as a rare species in Bangladesh.
However, on a global scale, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) classifies it as a species of Least Concern, indicating that it faces minimal threats to its survival.
Under the Bangladesh Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 1974 and 2012, the Shumcha species enjoys legal protection to ensure its conservation and well-being.
TDM/SD
