The Rajshahi University (RU) campus has become a safe haven for the rare bird Bamune Shalik (Brahminy Starling), which is disappearing from many parts of the country but can now be seen roaming the campus throughout the year.
Favourable habitat, adequate food and safe shelter have helped the bird establish a permanent presence on the campus, making RU one of the notable habitats of the species in the country.
While other starling species, including Common Myna, Chestnut-tailed Starling and Bank Myna, are commonly seen across the country, Bamune Shalik is comparatively rare.
The bird is found more frequently in tree-rich areas of Rajshahi division, particularly on the RU campus, where the natural environment provides suitable conditions for its survival.
About 21 centimetres long, the Bamune Shalik has little visible difference between males and females. An adult bird has a black crest on its head, a grey back, buff-coloured throat and tail, and white patches beneath the tail.
Its strong beak, with bluish colour at the base, greenish colour in the middle and yellow at the tip, gives the bird a distinctive appearance. It is also known for its swift flight and ability to mimic the calls of other birds.
The birds usually build nests with dry leaves and grass in holes in walls, tree hollows or earthen pots hung by people. They lay three to four bluish eggs.
During the breeding season from March to July, they mainly feed on fruits and insects.
Bamune Shalik can be seen at different parts of the RU campus, including the Shaheed Minar, Zuberi Building, Silsila area, helipad and main gate.
Professor Dr Aminuzzaman Md Saleh Reza of the Department of Zoology said Bamune Shalik has made the RU campus its permanent habitat as it gets adequate food, security and a suitable environment for survival.
He said, like some native birds that are closely associated with specific regions such as the Sundarbans and Chattogram, the natural environment of Rajshahi is favourable for Bamune Shalik.
“No separate artificial measures are needed to protect the species. Preserving its natural habitat and keeping bushes intact can help ensure its survival,” he said.
Prof Saleh Reza said the RU campus is a rich sanctuary for avian biodiversity in Bangladesh, hosting more than 100 resident and migratory bird species in its green spaces, old trees and water bodies.
The university campus has diverse natural habitats, including woodlands, croplands, grasslands, tall trees, bushes, herbs, ponds, canals, pools and low-lying areas, which support a rich variety of birdlife.
Professor Dr Md Anisur Rahman of the same department said tall trees, open water bodies and abundant food make the campus a preferred destination for migratory birds, particularly during the winter season.
Talking to BSS on Thursday, RU Vice-Chancellor Professor Faridul Islam said killing birds on the campus is strictly prohibited.
“The birds are not subjected to any kind of disturbance or fear,” he said.
He said the university authorities remain vigilant so that the free movement of indigenous and migratory birds is not hindered in any way.
Fahim Muntasir Rafin, a student of the Bengali Department and a photographer, said he first photographed the bird behind the Siraji Building in February 2024.
He said the birds are attracted to the campus due to the easy availability of food, particularly around garbage dumping sites.
Rafin urged the university authorities to strengthen surveillance to prevent disturbance to the birds during their breeding season and stop the theft of chicks.
