International Migratory Bird Day

International Migratory Bird Day is a two-day event held annually on the second weekend of May to highlight the need to protect migratory birds and their habitats.

It's time to let loose because the second Saturday in May since 1992 is International Migratory Birds Day! At least 4,000 different species of birds are migratory, representing about 40% of the total poultry population. They do all in order to pursue food. Twice per year, these birds will fly to warmer climates for the winter, and then return home to breed. As humans, we can all appreciate the value of following food globally.

History of International Migratory Bird Day

Most birds migrate at night. They've been doing this for years, as night skies often mean quieter airspace and fewer predators. Nocturnal migratory birds include ducks and geese, raptors and sand birds, and songbirds. These birds can travel thousands of miles between their breeding and non-breeding sites.

However, the night sky is under threat. Artificial light is increasing globally by at least two percent each year, causing a problem for birds. Light pollution from homes, businesses and other infrastructure attracts and disorients migratory birds, making them more likely to land in vulnerable areas and other hazards. Artificial light also affects birds during the breeding season and winter, disrupting feeding and other important behaviors.

International Migratory Bird Day is a conservation initiative to raise awareness about the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats throughout the Western Hemisphere. It is dedicated to international conservation efforts and environmental education in Canada, the United States, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Originally created by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center, it is now coordinated by Environment of the Americas.

International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) is officially observed on the second Saturday in May in the United States and Canada and on the second Saturday in October in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean every year. Realize that this day doesn't work well for all places or for migratory birds themselves - the venues host these shows conveniently throughout the year.

This program engages the public interested in maintaining healthy bird populations and protecting breeding, non-breeding and stopping habitats used by migratory birds. International Bird Migratory Day programs are often informal science education or informal science learning activities such as bird walks, art competitions, nature festivals and presentations. These programs take place in a variety of destinations including zoos, aquariums, protected lands, biospheres, museums and schools.

Each year, International Migratory Bird Day will have a special theme with corresponding artwork, educational materials and activities.

Some reasons for International Migratory Bird Day being loved

• Birds are wonderful animals

They are the wonders of evolution. They are close relatives of dinosaurs, they are the only creatures on the planet that grow feathers and - of course - they can fly. That last thing made birds the envy of man for most of their shared existence. Who wouldn't want to spread their wings and soar into the sky on International Migratory Bird Day?

• Migration takes a lot of energy

Migration itself is a genetically controlled impulse. It's a primitive trait that even shows up in birds that aren't necessarily migratory. The ability of birds to navigate and navigate during migration is an even more complex phenomenon. Not to mention, birds need to change their metabolism to store enough energy for the journey, and at the same time molt to prepare for the wear and tear of a long flight.

• Migration also helps other species

Bird migration helps control pest populations wherever in the world they visit, and some smaller species also aid in flower pollination, while larger scavengers helps to eliminate undead waste. In addition, their manure also provides many nutrients to help plants grow.

How to celebrate International Migratory Bird Day

• Take a walk in nature

Contact your local ecosystem and see what birds frequent your area. See if you can spot which birds are native to the area and which are visitors from far away. As the seasons change, see if you can spot which species leave and which come to take their place. You can keep a journal and see how it will be change from year to year with bonus point.

• Join the Audubon Association

The Audubon Society is dedicated to the conservation, health and welfare of all different types of birds. There are around 500 local chapters across the country, and each chapter is fighting the battle to save the birds on various fronts at the same time. Find one closest to you and see how you can help our feathered friends thrive, whether by donating your money or your time.

• Set up the bird feeder

You can go and find nature on International Bird Migratory Day, or you can bring nature to you. Placing a feeder outside your house will attract all sorts of local birds looking for something to hide. You can arrange as many different foods as you like — even sugar water for the hummingbirds! Do not forget to make sure that there is no attention of the local squirrels and cats to spoil our fun.