Several thousand species of birds are on long-distance flights now. It is time to remember this fascinating fact on May 14 during the celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. Winged travelers change their habitat to find satisfying feeding grounds. The standard scheme for heat-loving birds is to fly to countries with a warmer climate at the start of the winter. When winter ends, the feathered inhabitants return and lay eggs in more favorable conditions.
History
The holiday was approved in 2006 on the initiative of environmental protection societies. It was proposed to celebrate the holiday in May and October.
Interesting Facts
Migration takes resources and effort. Birds prepare for the flight carefully. They follow powerful natural instincts, rather than being forced by a situational decision. Their metabolism adapts, and they shed their plumage.
- The need to migrate is inherent in many living beings.
- During the journey, birds continue to unconsciously participate in the pollination of plants and feed on insects. They have a beneficial effect on an area: pests are destroyed, and their droppings fertilize the soil.
- During migration, birds activate a mechanism responsible for navigating in space to determine their direction.
On this holiday, try to notice which birds you encounter are native, and which ones arrived recently and will soon leave. If you find it fascinating, start keeping a diary with bird-watching records. Install easily constructed feeders from cans, plastic, or wood, fixed to poles and tree trunks. Take care of nature!
When is World Migratory Bird Day in 2024?
World Migratory Bird Day is observed on the second Saturday in May.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Saturday | May | 11 | 2024 |
| Saturday | May | 10 | 2025 |
