Image World Migratory Bird Day/ Convention on Migratory Species

World Migratory Bird Day -- 9 May 2020

SAT // 9.5.2020
“World Migratory Bird Day reminds us that now, more than ever, we need to step up our actions to protect migratory birds and their habitats. Many bird species are in decline around the world, and the continued loss and destruction of nature has also been linked to the kinds of infectious diseases we are now combatting” -- Amy Fraenkel, Executive Secretary of the Convention on Migratory Species

On Saturday, 9 May 2020, people around the world will celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) – a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness of migratory birds and the need for international cooperation to conserve them. 

This year the theme of World Migratory Bird Day is “Birds Connect Our World” and was chosen to highlight the importance of conserving and restoring the ecological connectivity and integrity of ecosystems that support the natural cycles that are essential for the survival and well-being of migratory birds. The theme also underlines the fact that migratory birds are part of our shared natural heritage and they depend on a network of sites along their migration routes for breeding, feeding, resting and overwintering.

Last year, over 870 events were registered, including many gatherings of school groups and other public events which took place in city parks, wetlands and other places around the world often frequented by migratory birds. In comparison to past years, the global celebration of our avian friends and their fascinating annual migrations will look very different this year because of the unprecedented global health crisis the world is facing from COVID-19. 

There are many ways for people to voice their support for bird conservation, and to celebrate and share their appreciation for migratory birds in countries, cities, towns and villages around the world. While public gatherings (even in small groups) will be impossible in most localities, there are numerous alternatives that people could consider:

  • Hone your community birdwatching skills from your window, garden, balcony or, if you are able to spend time outside in public parks, the forest nearby or any other open spaces.
  • Use your social media channels to share your appreciation of migratory birds and the need for their conservation with the world! Use the hashtags: #WorldMigratoryBirdDay #WMBD2020 #BirdsConnectOurWorld #BirdsConnectUs
  • Create a book club or run a virtual reading session for children with stories where the main characters are our beloved birds;
  • Host craft lessons (origami, painting - get creative!) that allow people to learn about birds;
  • Provide good habitat for your local birds by planting bird-friendly trees or shrubs, install nest boxes and protect them from possible predators such as house pets. 

 

More Information:

Sustainable Wildlife Management

Website World Migratory Bird Day