World Migratory Bird Day 2026
World Migratory Bird Day 2026: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities
World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is celebrated annually to raise awareness about the importance of protecting migratory birds and their habitats. Established by the United Nations in 2006, the event officially takes place on May 19th in the U.S. and Canada and on the second Saturday of October in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. However, recognizing that these dates may not work well for all locations or migratory patterns, programs and celebrations are hosted at various times throughout the year.
Events and Activities
World Migratory Bird Day 2026 will feature events in over 100 countries, including:
Bird Walks and Observations: Guided tours to observe migratory bird species in their natural habitats.
Art Competitions and Exhibits: Creative works inspired by the beauty and significance of migratory birds.
Educational Workshops: Sessions on bird-friendly urban planning, habitat restoration, and biodiversity.
Community Festivals: Celebrations in parks, zoos, and museums with interactive activities for all ages.
Conservation Campaigns: Programs to educate the public about preserving migratory bird habitats and addressing threats like climate change and habitat loss.
History and Global Reach
Originally called International Migratory Bird Day, WMBD was initiated to emphasize the interconnectedness of bird migration routes and habitats across continents. Events engage the public in informal science education and conservation efforts, fostering a sense of responsibility for protecting migratory species.
Connection to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
World Migratory Bird Day supports the following SDGs:
SDG 13: Climate Action – Addressing the impacts of climate change on migratory species and their habitats.
SDG 15: Life on Land – Protecting ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices to maintain biodiversity.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Encouraging urban planning that integrates bird conservation.
A Global Call to Action
World Migratory Bird Day reminds us of the shared responsibility to protect migratory birds and their habitats. Join the global effort on May 9, 2026, by participating in events, learning about conservation, and taking steps to create a bird-friendly world.
World Migratory Bird Day Themes
| Year | Theme | Theme Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Focus on the Falcon | Highlighted the importance of falcons and their role in ecosystems. |
| 2001 | Taste of the Tropics | Explored tropical habitats and their importance to migratory birds. |
| 2002 | Exploring Habitats | Focused on various bird habitats and the need to conserve them. |
| 2003 | Catalysts for Conservation | Emphasized the role of birds as indicators of environmental health. |
| 2004 | Conserving Colonial Birds | Highlighted the conservation of colonial nesting birds and their habitats. |
| 2005 | Collisions | Addressed the issue of bird collisions with human-made structures. |
| 2006 | The Boreal Forest | Focused on the boreal forest as a vital breeding ground for birds. |
| 2007 | Birds in a Changing Climate | Explored the impacts of climate change on migratory birds. |
| 2008 | Tundra to Tropics | Emphasized the connection between tundra breeding and tropical wintering habitats. |
| 2009 | Celebrate Birds in Culture | Focused on the cultural significance of birds worldwide. |
| 2010 | Power of Partnerships | Highlighted collaborative efforts in bird conservation. |
| 2011 | Go Wild, Go Birding | Encouraged public participation in birdwatching and conservation activities. |
| 2012 | Connecting People to Bird Conservation | Focused on raising awareness and involving people in protecting birds. |
| 2013 | Life Cycle of Migratory Birds | Explored the various stages of migratory birds' life cycles. |
| 2014 | Why Birds Matter | Highlighted the ecological and economic value of birds. |
| 2015 | Restore Habitat, Restore Birds | Emphasized the importance of habitat restoration for conservation. |
| 2016 | Spread Your Wings for Bird Conservation | Encouraged individuals to support bird protection efforts. |
| 2017 | Stopover Sites | Focused on the critical role of stopover sites for migrating birds. |
| 2018 | Year of the Bird | Celebrated 100 years of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and global bird conservation. |
| 2019 | Protect Birds: Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution | Called attention to the impact of plastic waste on bird populations. |
| 2020 | Birds Connect Our World | Celebrated birds as vital connectors between ecosystems and regions. |
| 2021 | Sing, Fly, Soar – Like a Bird! | Promoted awareness and appreciation for migratory birds' beauty and resilience. |
| 2022 | Light Pollution | Focused on the impact of artificial light on migratory bird behavior and survival. |
| 2023 | Water: Sustaining Bird Life | Emphasized conserving wetlands and freshwater habitats critical for migration. |
| 2024 | Protect Insects, Protect Birds | Addressed declining insect populations and their effects on bird survival. |
| 2025 | Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities | Promotes urban planning and community engagement to make cities safer for migratory birds. |
