World Migratory Bird Day 2023 – Ways You Can Help Migratory Birds

An image of a male and female common merganser

World Migratory Bird Day 2023 is an international celebration aimed at raising awareness about the importance of water for the survival of migratory birds. This year's theme, Water: Sustaining Bird Life, emphasizes the critical role that water resources play in the life cycle of these incredible creatures. In this blog post, we'll delve into the significance of water for migratory birds, explore the challenges they face due to diminishing water resources, and discuss ways we can conserve water resources to support their survival.

Why Water is Crucial for Migratory Birds

Water is indispensable for migratory birds at every stage of their life cycle. Here's a closer look at the essential functions that water serves:

• Rest and refuel during migration: Birds need water to rest and refuel as they traverse long distances. Freshwater bodies offer crucial stopover sites where birds can drink, bathe, and replenish their energy reserves.

• Breeding and nesting habitats: Many species of migratory birds depend on wetlands, lakes, rivers, and other water bodies for breeding and nesting. These habitats provide the necessary conditions for courtship, nesting, and raising young.

• Food sources: Water is equally crucial for the survival of insects and small fish that many migratory birds feed on. These food sources rely on healthy aquatic ecosystems for their own survival.

• Shelter and protection: Water bodies support diverse vegetation, offering shelter and protection from predators for migratory birds and their offspring.

Challenges Faced by Migratory Birds Due to Diminishing Water Resources Migratory birds face significant threats due to diminishing water resources. Human activities such as water extraction, pollution, and habitat destruction have led to the loss and degradation of wetlands and other water bodies, jeopardizing the survival of these amazing creatures.

An image of Northern Shovelers

Conserving Water Resources for Migratory Birds

Preserving water resources is essential for the survival of migratory birds. Here are some ways we can contribute:

• Reduce water usage: Conserving water at home and in our communities can help minimize the amount of water extracted from natural sources. Simple actions like fixing leaky faucets, using water-efficient appliances, and taking shorter showers can make a difference.

• Protect wetlands and other water bodies: Wetlands and other water bodies provide critical habitats for migratory birds. Safeguarding and restoring these habitats is vital for the survival of numerous species. Support local and international organizations working to conserve these ecosystems.

• Support water conservation policies: Governments can play a significant role in conserving water resources by enacting policies that promote water conservation, protect wetlands, and regulate water extraction. Advocate for such policies and vote for leaders who prioritize environmental conservation.

• Raise awareness: Share information about the importance of water for migratory birds with your friends, family, and social media followers. Encourage others to participate in conservation efforts and support organizations working towards protecting migratory birds and their habitats.

Actions you can take to Protect and Support Migratory Birds

It is our collective responsibility to protect and support migratory birds and here are some practical steps we can take to safeguard migratory birds and the ecosystems they rely on for their survival:

• Keep your pets, especially cats, indoors or supervised to prevent them from disturbing or harming resting birds.

• If you have a garden or yard, create a bird-friendly habitat by planting native vegetation that provides food, shelter, and nesting sites for birds.

• Install a bird bath or water feature in your garden to provide clean water for birds to drink and bathe.

• Participate in local birdwatching events or citizen science projects, such as bird counts, to help monitor and protect migratory bird populations.

• Donate your old birdwatching equipment, such as binoculars or spotting scopes, to local birdwatching groups.

• Avoid using harmful pesticides and herbicides in your garden, as these chemicals can contaminate water sources and harm birds and other wildlife.

• Respect and observe local guidelines or signs that protect resting and nesting areas for migratory birds, such as staying off designated nesting beaches during breeding season.

• Birds often fly toward home plants in search of a resting area so move houseplants away from windows to reduce window collisions. This is because window collisions pose a substantial risk to migratory birds, killing 16 to 42 million birds in Canada each year.

• Turning off the lights at night is also helpful. Most songbirds migrate at night, relying on the moon and stars to direct them. Overnight lights can confuse migratory birds, causing them to collide with windows.

Water is a critical element in the survival of migratory birds, and World Migratory Bird Day 2023 offers an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of water resources in sustaining bird life. By taking action to conserve water, protect wetlands and other water bodies, and engaging in on-the-ground actions, we can help ensure the survival of these awe-inspiring creatures for generations to come. Let's work together to create a better world for migratory birds and the ecosystems that depend on them.

All pictures were taken by ACAP Saint John’s Conservation and Restoration Coordinator, Aiden.