World Migratory Bird Day

World Migratory Bird Day is observed twice a year, on the second Saturday in May and again on the second Saturday in October. It is a global awareness‑raising campaign dedicated to celebrating migratory birds and drawing attention to the conservation challenges they face.

History of World Migratory Bird Day

The roots of World Migratory Bird Day trace back to earlier efforts such as International Migratory Bird Day in the Americas, coordinated by Environment for the Americas beginning in 1993. In 2006, conservation treaties including the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) and the Agreement on the Conservation of African‑Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) joined in to broaden the event’s scope and rename it to World Migratory Bird Day, offering a truly global reach.

Over time, the observance evolved to use two peak days—one in spring to mark the northward migrations, and one in autumn to mark southern or return migrations. This dual approach allows communities around the world to celebrate birds when they are passing through or visiting their region.

Why World Migratory Bird Day is important

Migratory birds undertake awe‑inspiring long‑distance journeys, often crossing continents, ecosystems, and boundaries of nations. Their routes, stopover sites, breeding and wintering grounds are interconnected: threats in any link of the chain can affect birds’ survival. World Migratory Bird Day highlights how habitat loss, climate change, pollution, collisions, and other human activities impact these species across borders.

At the same time, the observance deepens public awareness of birds’ ecological roles: as seed dispersers, pollinators, insect controllers, and indicators of environmental health. It also fosters international cooperation, because protecting migratory birds requires coordination among countries, organizations, local communities, and individuals along their flyways.

• it encourages people to see birds as global travelers, not just local species
• it promotes habitat protection across countries and landscapes
• it underscores the urgency of addressing threats that cross borders
• it connects communities in bird conservation efforts
• it helps cultivate appreciation and stewardship for nature’s patterns

How to Observe World Migratory Bird Day

You can engage with this day in simple, meaningful ways. Start by going on a bird walk — early morning or near dusk — and observe species in your area. Use a field guide or a bird identification app to learn their names, songs, and migration status. Invite others along, especially young people; curiosity is contagious.

If you are in urban or suburban areas, you might apply bird‑friendly practices: plant native vegetation, reduce light pollution (especially during migration peaks), make windows safer (stickers, decals, films), provide water sources, and avoid using pesticides. Sharing photos or stories on social media with the hashtag #WorldMigratoryBirdDay helps spread awareness and can inspire others to act. Supporting or volunteering with bird conservation groups or local birding events is also a powerful way to contribute.

• go on a bird‑watching outing and note migratory species
• plant native plants and shrubs that support birds
• reduce artificial light and make buildings more bird-safe
• share images, facts or experiences online
• attend or host a talk, exhibit, or bird festival

World Migratory Bird Day Dates Table