INTERNATIONAL DAY

World Migratory Bird Day

On World Migratory Bird Day, we slow down enough to notice the sky and the singers in it.

MAY10
Monday, May 10Every year on May 10
 days to go
Roots
Launched in 2006 by the UN-backed African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement
Vibe
A celebration of nature and conservation awareness
Hashtag
#WorldMigratoryBirdDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day.

  • Fill the feeders and clean the bath.
  • Sit outside for 10 minutes and count the birds you see.
  • Download a bird-ID app and learn three songs.
  • Donate to a local Audubon or migratory bird initiative.
  • Take a kid on a slow-walk birding outing.

Make it your kind of celebration

  • Family

    Start a bird-watching log — who shows up, where, when.

  • Kids

    Build a bird feeder together out of pantry staples and a milk jug.

  • Couples

    Pack a thermos and go on an actual bird walk together.

  • Office

    Plant a small pollinator-friendly planter outside the building — it attracts birds too.

  • School

    Pair the day with a unit on migration, habitat, or local ornithology.

  • Community

    Join or support a local Audubon chapter's education or conservation project.

  • Just me

    Sit outside with coffee for 20 minutes and just listen.

Plan ahead

World Migratory Bird Day is observed on the second Saturday in May. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, May 9this year
2027Sat, May 8
2028Sat, May 13
2029Sat, May 12
2030Sat, May 11
2031Sat, May 10
2032Sat, May 8
2033Sat, May 14
2034Sat, May 13
2035Sat, May 12
2036Sat, May 10

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Over 4,000Species of birds migrate globally
Some migratory birds travel over 10,000 miles annually

The story

World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated twice a year, once in May and once in October, marking the peak of migration seasons for many species. This observance encourages people worldwide to engage in bird conservation efforts while appreciating the beauty and complexity of avian migration. As birds travel vast distances, they face numerous challenges, including habitat loss, climate change, and pollution, making awareness and action crucial for their survival.

Read the full story

The day serves not only as a platform for education but also as a call to action. Events are held globally, from guided birdwatching tours to community clean-ups, all aimed at fostering a greater understanding of migratory birds. Organizations and volunteers work tirelessly to create safe environments for these birds and promote policies that protect critical habitats. These efforts highlight the interconnectedness of all species and the crucial role birds play in ecosystems.

In the United States, migratory birds like the American Robin and the Arctic Tern embark on journeys that are nothing short of extraordinary. The migratory patterns of these birds are influenced by various factors, including weather conditions and food availability. Local initiatives often involve schools and community groups that organize events to educate the public and encourage action in support of migratory bird conservation.

As we observe World Migratory Bird Day, let us take a moment to appreciate the incredible feats of these birds and the importance of their protection. By creating bird-friendly habitats, supporting conservation efforts, and spreading awareness, we can all contribute to ensuring future generations can witness the same breathtaking migrations that inspire awe and admiration.

Did you know?

01

Longest Migration

The Arctic Tern migrates approximately 44,000 miles each year.

02

Threats to Birds

Habitat destruction is one of the biggest threats to migratory birds.

03

Birding Hotspots

Places like Point Reyes in California are renowned for birdwatching.

04

Unique Adaptations

Some species can travel non-stop for days during migration.

05

Seasonal Nesting

Many migratory birds return to the same nesting sites each year.

06

Bird Conservation

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act was enacted in 1918 to protect migratory birds.

07

Bird Watching Growth

Birdwatching has increased in popularity, with millions participating in the U.S.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesHome to diverse migratory bird species across various habitats.
  • CACanadaImportant breeding grounds for many migratory birds.
  • MXMexicoA vital stopover for migrating birds from North America.
  • GBUnited KingdomHosts numerous migratory species, especially during winter.
  • AUAustraliaHome to unique migratory birds traveling from the Northern Hemisphere.
  • BRBrazilSupports a variety of migratory species in its rich ecosystems.

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