What lies ahead for the Baya Weavers of Sinduria?
These small birds play a crucial role in maintaining the balance in the ecosystem, and their presence indicates good ecological health. But now, they face the threats of rapid urbanisation
During the monsoon season, hundreds of Baya weaver birds gather near the suburban wetlands of Mirertek, Sinduria, and Gerua. In the June and July afternoons, they forage near agricultural fields and grasslands, filling the air with their lively chirping.
The locals adore these small, intelligent birds, who have been gathering here for generations. Village elders recall specific places where Baya weavers have built nests every season for nearly 30 years.
Despite their relatively short lifespan of 10-14 years, these birds have been returning to the same nesting sites for generations. And these Savar wetlands are one of the few places to see weavers near Dhaka city.
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The Weaverbirds
Baya weavers are small birds, similar to sparrows, ranging from 10-15 cm. They belong to the weaver family of songbirds, native to Africa and Asia.
Breeding males are distinguished by their bright yellow crowns, dark brown masks, and blackish-brown bills. Females and non-breeding males lack the bright yellow crowns. These birds are adept at crushing seeds and grains with their stout conical bills, which also help them weave intricate nests from grass. The same bill also helps them to weave grass strands into definite shapes, hence the name "weavers."
Community involvement is vital for any conservation. Educating locals about the importance of these birds and their role in the ecosystem can foster a sense of stewardship. Preserving suburban wetlands like the Sinduria is essential at this hour.
Baya Weavers are very intelligent. They remain in groups and can build complex nests from flats to apartment complexes. There is one species in Africa called the Sociable Weaver that builds one huge straw nest that houses an entire colony. These adaptations defend weavers from a variety of predators.
All 67 weaver species live in the Old World. Bangladesh has three: the Streaked Weaver, the Black-breasted Weaver, and the Baya Weaver.
Remarkable nest builders
Baya weavers are renowned for their nest-building skills. Their nests are retort-shaped with a central chamber and a long vertical tube leading to a sideways or downward entrance. These nests, hanging in mid-air, are designed to withstand heavy winds.
Some nests even have false openings to confuse predators, adding an extra layer of protection for their chicks. Male Baya weavers compete to build the best nests to attract females. The females pick partners based on height, design, and location of the nest.
In a single season, a male may build around half a dozen nests!
In Sinduria and Mirertek, at least seven locations hold Baya Weaver colonies, mostly on coconut trees. Some trees have more than 50 nests.
Why Sinduria?
Sinduria, located about 5 kilometres from the Jahangirnagar University near Gerua in Pathalia Union, Savar, is an ideal nesting site for Baya weavers. The lowland areas, locally known as Sinduria Bill, flood during the monsoon, creating an abundance of grass and vegetation.
The area is connected to the Dhaleshwari River and consists mostly of villages and agricultural land. Historically, the area had a large waterbody, which has now shrunk due to road construction and land development.
Despite these changes, remnants of the lake still attract various wildlife, including Baya weavers, who prefer nesting near water bodies.
Weavers' role in the ecosystem
Baya weavers play a crucial role. Their nests reflect their intricate social structures and community living—a living example of evolutionary adaptations. These nests provide shelter not just for the weavers but also for other small birds and insects, creating a microhabitat that supports biodiversity.
The Baya weavers' diet primarily consists of seeds and grains, but they also consume insects, helping in pest control. By feeding on a variety of seeds, they contribute to the dispersal of plants, aiding in the regeneration of grasslands and other vegetative areas.
Their presence is an indicator of a healthy environment.
A balance under threats
Wetlands and lowlands, crucial for their nesting and foraging, are being rapidly converted into residential and commercial areas.
This not only reduces their habitat but also disrupts the ecological balance of the region. It is quite surprising that these weavers still live quite close to Dhaka, a city of 24 million people.
The habitat of Baya weavers is slowly disappearing due to construction projects and the loss of grasslands. In Mirertek, wetlands and low areas are being filled with sand, giving way for concrete structures. Local developers often disregard environmental factors, jeopardizing the future of these birds and the whole wetland ecosystem. The filling of lowlands also leads to water clogging, contamination, and the spread of diseases.
Despite ongoing development, there is still a significant amount of land in Mirertek worth preserving. Raising awareness among locals about the importance of wetlands and their cultural heritage can help. Highlighting the current conditions to authorities could prompt initiatives to preserve the environment.
Recently, Sinduria Bill has attracted tourists, turning it into a potential eco-tourism spot. Establishing restaurants on bamboo platforms has already begun, apparently in a very haphazard way. However, promoting wildlife-focused tourism can support local businesses and conservation efforts.
Community involvement is vital for any conservation. Educating locals about the importance of these birds and their role in the ecosystem can foster a sense of stewardship. Preserving suburban wetlands like the Sinduria is essential, especially at this hour, for maintaining biodiversity and offering a natural escape from city life.
These wetland patches are ideal candidates for community-led and privately-owned conservation areas.
