World Migratory Bird Day

World Migratory Bird Day History

World Migratory Bird Day is an annual observance aimed at highlighting the long and remarkable journeys undertaken by migratory birds between their breeding and wintering grounds. This event serves to raise awareness about these avian travellers’ needs for conservation and the importance of promoting international cooperation to protect them. It is a celebration of the invaluable role these birds play in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, as well as their contribution to human culture and traditions.

The origin of World Migratory Bird Day dates back to 2006 when it was initiated by the United Nations' Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA) and the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). New Zealand, with its unique ecological diversity and home to numerous endemic bird species, is a significant destination and resting stop for migratory birds in the Australasian Flyway. Therefore, the observance is particularly relevant for New Zealanders to learn about the importance of preserving bird habitats within the country and raising awareness for the global efforts in protecting these travelling birds.

In New Zealand, World Migratory Bird Day is typically celebrated through various educational activities and events, such as bird watching outings, presentations by local experts, and specially designed workshops to engage the younger generation in bird conservation efforts. Community groups, schools, environmental organisations, and passionate individuals come together to celebrate and showcase the diverse bird species that visit their shores. While this important day is officially observed on the second Saturday of May each year, some countries or communities may choose to mark the occasion at alternative times to align with the peak of migratory bird activity in their region.