JU hosts 22nd day-long  bird fair  to boost public awareness for bird

The 22nd annual bird fair, aimed at raising public awareness about bird conservation, took place at Jahangirnagar University (JU) with a series of day-long activities organized by the Zoology Department. The event, held in front of the Zahir Raihan auditorium from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm on Friday, addressed concerns about the declining bird presence on campus over the past few years.

Professor of Zoology, Md. Kamrul Hasan, the convener of the bird fair, stated, "the increasing human presence along the reservoir's banks has disturbed the birds, leading to a decrease in their interest to inhabit the area."

Professor Dr. Mohammed Mostafa Feeroz, the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Academic), remarked, "the Wildlife Rescue Center (WRC) now serves as a refuge for birds due to its suitable environment, with public entry prohibited as external visitors causing disturbances. The university aims to create bird-friendly environments in all water bodies on campus."

In his opening address as the chief guest, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Nurul Alam stated, "JU is actively working towards preserving a conducive environment for birds. To safeguard the natural and educational ambiance of the campus, the authorization for organizing event has been restricted on Fridays and Saturdays. Despite these measures, a significant influx of visitors occurs on holidays. If it is possible to prevent crowding and to adhere the imposed rules, the sanctuaries of the birds can be guaranteed."

Professor Sheikh Md. Monzurul Huq, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration), along with renowned bird researcher Inam Al Haque, Abdul Mukit Majumder Babu, Chairman of Prokriti o Jibon Foundation, Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hosain Chowdhury, and Professor Dr. Mohammad Monirul Hasan Khan, the Chairman of the Department of Zoology, also delivered speeches during the event.

The bird fair recognizes achievements in the Big Bird competition, outstanding bird reports in the media, and awards for bird research reports. The day features various activities, including a bird drawing competition for children, quizzes, book-poster exhibitions, bird watching, bird identification competitions, and informative bird talks.

The inaugural bird fair was initiated by the 'Bangladesh Bird Club' in 2000, with direct involvement from the University's Department of Zoology since 2004. In 2011 the fair was not held due to the lease of the water bodies and in 2021, it was canceled due to the university's closure amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The 22nd Bird Fair successfully took place this year.