The Return of Peacocks to Bangladesh’s Sal Forests: A Bold Step Toward Ecological Restoration

For over four decades, the peacock — once a majestic and familiar sight in many parts of Bangladesh — existed only in memories and old literature. Due to rapid urbanization, deforestation, and unregulated hunting, this regal bird vanished from its natural habitat in the country. In 2015, the IUCN officially declared the peacock “Extinct in the Wild” in Bangladesh.

Amid this grim reality, a new initiative has brought a ray of hope. On May 26, 2025, ten peacocks (five pairs) were released into the Lahoriya Beat of the Dokhola Range in the Madhupur Sal Forest. These birds will first undergo a period of adaptation to their wild surroundings under close observation. Gradually, they will be allowed to roam freely and reintegrate into the forest ecosystem.

This historic release was initiated by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, environmental advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. She was joined by noted wildlife biologist Dr. Reza Khan, bird specialist Inam Al Haque, and several other conservation activists. Everyone agreed that this is more than just reintroducing one species; it’s a crucial step toward restoring ecological balance and biodiversity.

Bird expert Inam Al Haque emphasized the importance of preparing captive-bred peacocks before releasing them into the wild. These birds are often unfamiliar with natural threats. As such, they must be trained to recognize predators, seek refuge in trees at night, and develop safe foraging habits. He suggested setting up surveillance cameras and using satellite tracking to monitor their behavior and ensure their safety.

Bangladesh historically had two peacock species: the Indian Peafowl (India’s national bird) and the endangered Green Peafowl. The Indian Peafowl was once widespread in the plains, while the Green Peafowl was found in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Today, neither survives in the wild in Bangladesh.

However, sightings of wild peacocks still occur near the Indian border in Tetulia’s Darjipara village in Panchagarh. Peacocks from nearby Indian forests are known to cross the border into Bangladesh in search of food. Locals, notably, do not disturb them — creating a rare and inspiring example of peaceful coexistence. In recent years, wildlife photographers have observed a small group of four to five peacocks in this area.

This indicates that some areas in Bangladesh still offer suitable conditions for peacock reintroduction. Experts believe that in addition to Madhupur, Panchagarh could be an ideal second site. Released, disease-free peacocks could likely adapt well to the nearby Indian forest.

The return of peacocks to Bangladesh’s forests is not merely about reviving a species. It is a symbol of growing environmental awareness and a commitment to conservation. A century ago, peacocks were a common sight in places like Dhaka’s Ramna Park and Savar. For today’s generation, these images may seem like fantasy, but this initiative shows that returning to nature is a real possibility.

Now is the time for collective action. Let us protect our forests, stop illegal hunting, and foster harmony between humans and wildlife. May the vibrant call of the peacock once again echo through the green landscapes of Bangladesh.