Jhenaidah villagers step in to protect endangered fishing cat cubs
The cubs were born around 10-12 days ago.
A resident of a Jhenaidah village has stepped in to protect two endangered fishing cat cubs born in an unused room of a house in Maheshpur.
The discovery became public on Friday afternoon (6 February), drawing curious visitors from nearby areas. Thanks to timely awareness and cooperation from locals, the mother and her cubs remain safe.
The cubs were born around 10-12 days ago at the residence of Shahin Islam in Jelepota village under Shyamkur Union.
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Wildlife conservation activist Nazmul Hossain reached the spot after learning about the cubs and explained to residents that fishing cats are generally shy animals and play an important role in the ecosystem.
He urged everyone not to disturb the newborns, noting that they depend entirely on their mother at this early stage.
Maheshpur Upazila Forest Officer Shafiqul Islam also advised against any interference while the mother remains present, saying the cubs are too young to be relocated.
"Fishing cats are a protected species, and harming them is a non-bailable offence under the Wildlife Conservation Act," he said.
He added that forest officials are now monitoring the situation regularly, while the homeowners have taken responsibility for quietly watching over the cubs until their mother moves them to a safer place.
The response of Shahin Islam and local residents has drawn appreciation from conservationists, who hope the example will inspire others to protect wildlife in similar situations.
