Md Nazmul Khan Zuzon, Srinagar (Munshiganj)

The Baya Weaver, a bird from the Ploceidae family, is renowned for its exceptional nest-building skills which also called "weaver birds," have earned a reputation as skilled artisans due to their intricate and aesthetically pleasing nests.

The mere thought of these birds brings back cherished childhood memories and evokes the essence of traditional Bengal poetry, often reflecting the joy of freedom.

In the past, the sight of numerous Baya Weavers and their elegant nests was common in areas like Madankhali’s Arial Beel and various neighborhoods of Srinagar, Munshiganj. Their nests could be seen hanging from tall trees like coconut, date, and palm, as well as from mango, black plum, jackfruit, babla, and pakur trees.

Male and female Baya Weavers appear similar, though the females have a brownish streak on their back and a whitish underbelly. During the breeding season, male birds display bright yellow feathers on their heads. After completing their nests, females lay 2-4 eggs in them. Baya Weavers typically live for 7-8 years.

Over time, these birds have become a rare sight due to habitat loss. Renowned poet Ranjanikanta Sen immortalized the Baya Weaver in his iconic poem that metaphorically praises the bird’s craftsmanship. One of the most famous lines, “The Baya Weaver was told by the sparrow: Stay modest in your tiny hut, why boast of your artistry?” encapsulates the essence of its struggle.

Globally, there are around 117 species of weaver birds, with three species found in Bangladesh—native Baya, Streaked Baya, and Bengali Baya. Apart from South Asia (Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan), these species are not found anywhere else.

Field visits reveal that the presence of Baya Weavers in areas like Shyamsiddhi, Kukutia, Bairakhali, Hansara, Solghar, and Rarikhal is now limited. Most of their nests are spotted on palm trees, though they are also forced to use other trees due to the declining number of palm and date trees. Using their beaks, these birds weave grass and leaves into intricate nests.

It is often said that a female Baya Weaver dreams of settling down only if she approves of the male’s nest. One of their unique characteristics is capturing fireflies at night to illuminate their nests.

Locals note that Baya Weavers are now rarely seen and their numbers are dwindling. The increasing human population, loss of tall trees, and reduction in greenery have driven these iconic birds toward extinction. Conservationists emphasize the need for awareness and proactive measures to preserve their habitat to ensure the survival of this species.