A rare monitor lizard was rescued from the Purana Para area of Shamlapur in Baharchhara Union, Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar, and safely released into a nearby forest.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, 18 November, around 1 pm, when the lizard was spotted preying on a chick at Ali Akbar’s home. Local resident and Shamlapur BCG president, Amir Md. Shahjahan, skillfully captured the reptile and ensured its safe release.
Shahjahan, who has been involved in wildlife conservation for many years, said the monitor lizard had entered the local area causing concern, prompting its rescue. He added that the lizard weighs over 6 kilograms and measures approximately 4.5 feet in length. Over the years, he has rescued and released around 2,000–3,000 wild animals of various species.
Osman Sarwar, Research Assistant at Cox’s Bazar Marine Life Alliance, emphasized that monitor lizards play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and should not be killed; they should be safely returned to the wild.
Shamlapur Range Officer Sohel Rana urged locals to avoid harming wildlife when it enters residential areas, highlighting the forest department’s ongoing efforts in wildlife conservation and sanctuary development.
Authorities hope such initiatives will raise awareness in the community and encourage greater protection of wildlife in the region.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
