7 Simple Ways to Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day

World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated on the second Saturday of May in North America and the second Saturday of October in Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. This special day is used to raise awareness about the importance of migratory birds and their conservation. It is the perfect opportunity to show our love and respect for birds by giving and contributing to healthier habits that support bird habitats and our planet. There are many simple ways that we can celebrate this day.

7 simple ways to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day.

1. Watch Birds and Share What You See

The first and most obvious way to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day is to go bird-watching. Observe the different species of migratory birds that pass through your area and share some photos on social media to inspire your family, friends, and followers. You can even share your bird sightings to eBird, the largest citizen science platform in the world that uses the over 100 million bird sightings contributed each year to power data-driven approaches to conservation.

2. Plant a plant or tree (or three!)

Most lawns and typical gardens don’t provide adequate shelter or food for birds and other wildlife. Rewilding your yard by reducing traditional turf, expanding garden area, and increasing native plants and trees has a range of benefits for your yard, neighbourhood, wallet, and, of course, our planet, wildlife, and the many migratory birds looking for nectar, insects, seeds, and places to shelter and nest.

3. Install Window Decals or Screens

Nearly 1 billion birds die each year in North America from hitting reflective window glass. Make windows safer by installing screens, tape, string, or decals that help break up reflections. This process can also be a fun way to involve kids of all ages by making DIY window decal art.

4. Volunteer

You can also volunteer for a local bird conservation group or organization. They often organize events and activities to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. You can help with bird surveys, habitat restoration, and other conservation efforts.

5. Keep Cats Indoors

Cats are estimated to kill over 2.5 billion birds yearly in North America, which, aside from habitat loss, is the largest human-caused reason for the loss of birds. Cats (even those well-fed) will instinctively hunt and kill birds, so keep your cat inside, on a leash or treat them to a ‘catio’ that will protect the birds and your cat from harm

6. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Climate change is one of the biggest threats to migratory birds. Reduce your carbon footprint by using public transportation, cycling, or walking instead of driving. You can also reduce your energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when not in use.

7. Avoid Single-Use Plastics

Nearly 5,000 million metric tons of plastic waste has accumulated in landfills and our environment worldwide. This plastic is polluting oceans and harming wildlife like seabirds who consume it or become entangled in it. A simple way to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day is to commit to choosing reusable items such as bags, bottles, wraps, dishes and utensils and tell others about the harmful impact of plastics and marine debris.

By following these simple ways to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, you can honor the incredible journey of migratory birds, spread awareness about their conservation and contribute to the respect and protection of these amazing birds.

Looking for more empowering ways to give while protecting and conserving birds and wildlife? Take a look at these other inspiring 365give posts:

Feel the Remarkable Benefits of Helping Animal Welfare Worldwide

Every Day Heroes That Give To Animals

10 Animal Gives for World Wildlife Day

Kelly McLay

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Engaged social worker, devoted parent, and firm believer in the power of giving, Kelly has been writing blogs for 365give since 2020. Eager to advocate for animals and the environment, promote plant-based eating, and encourage community giving to address systemic injustices and drive societal transformation, she is excited to continue learning and sharing how a daily giving habit can make this world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.

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7 Simple Ways to Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day