World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated twice a year, both in the spring for the arrival of migrating birds in North America and fall. The day was created to raise awareness about the importance of migrating birds and the need to conserve them. Here are some interesting facts about these amazing creatures.
When is World Migratory Bird Day?
In the US and Canada, World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated on the second Saturday in May.
In Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean, the bird holiday is celebrated on the second Saturday in October.
Both events coincide with the peak seasonal arrival of birds completing their spring or fall migrations.
These bird awareness days are the partnership among two UN wildlife treaties: the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) – and the non-profit organization, Environment for the Americas (EFTA).
World Migratory Bird Day highlights the importance of international cooperation for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats.
More than 200 registered events in over 30 countries marked May’s World Migratory Bird Day 2022 with bird festivals, education programs, media events, bird watching trips, presentations, film screenings and a benefit concert to raise funds for international nature conservation.
Why Do Birds Migrate?
Birds migrate for a variety of reasons, including to find food, escape cold weather or reproduce. Some birds even migrate to get away from predators.
Migration is a risky journey for birds, and many don’t make it to their destination. In fact, it’s estimated that only about one in three birds will survive their first migration.
How Do Birds Know When to Migrate?
Birds use a variety of cues to know when it’s time to migrate.
These cues can be things like changes in daylight, temperature, or food availability.
Interesting Facts About Migrating Birds
- There are more than 350 species of migratory birds in the world, from hummingbirds to hawks. Migrating birds can travel long distances—some have been known to fly more than 12,000 miles in a single year!
- Migration is a demanding process, and birds must double their body weight before they embark on their journey so they have enough energy to make the trip.
- Some birds use the stars to help them navigate their migration route.
- Migrating birds also have some pretty impressive physical adaptations that help them make the trip. For example, many migrating birds have extra-large hearts that help pump blood all the way to their wings so they can keep flying.
- Birds aren’t the only animals that migrate—plenty of other creatures do too, including butterflies, bats, whales and caribou. But birds are the only animals that migrate for long distances on a regular basis.
How You Can Help Migrating Birds
Along with supplying food and water, an important way you can assist migrating birds is to dim your outdoor lights at night.
Amy Fraenkel, Executive Secretary of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) explains: “Natural darkness has a conservation value in the same way as clean water, air, and soil.”
Light pollution is a significant risk to many species of migratory birds, and every year contributes to the death of millions of birds. Artificial lights can change birds’ migration patterns, foraging behaviors and vocal communication.
Attracted by artificial light at night, particularly when there is low cloud, fog, rain or when flying at lower altitudes, migrating birds become disorientated and may end up circling in illuminated areas. Depleted energy reserves put them at risk of exhaustion, predation and fatal collision with buildings.
Share Photos on Social Media
Have you spotted some migratory birds in your backyard? Share your photos on your favorite social media channel with the hashtag #WorldMigratoryBirdDay.
World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated twice each year to appreciate these amazing creatures and bring attention to the need for conservation efforts. Mark your calendar and help these feathered travelers reach their destinations!
Pin it to remember World Migratory Bird Day
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