Time to Un–Ruffle Your Feathers because May 10th is World Migratory Bird Day! 

Each spring and fall, skies around the globe come alive with millions of birds in flight. On May 10th, we celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, a global event that raises awareness of migratory birds and the need for their conservation. About 20% of all bird species make annual migrations, often traveling thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds. These journeys can span continents, with some birds crossing oceans and deserts in search of the best habitats for feeding, nesting, and raising their young. 

Migratory birds are more than just seasonal visitors; they are essential to the health of ecosystems. They pollinate plants, disperse seeds, and help control insect populations. Their presence is a sign of a healthy, functioning environment, and observing them can connect us to the rhythms of the natural world. 

World Migratory Bird Day Activities  

There are many ways to celebrate this annual occurrence, from spending time outdoors to making your home more bird-friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting to tune into the lives of birds, your actions can support their survival and well-being. For example, you can: 

• Go on a nature walk: Celebrate locally by stepping outside to explore your neighborhood, park, or nature preserve. Bring a pair of binoculars or your camera and keep a journal to note which birds you see. Apps like Merlin Bird ID or eBird can help you identify species and even track migratory patterns. One part-time resident here in Florida is the ruby-throated hummingbird, a dazzling little traveler that arrives in early March, stays through September, and heads south in October. Watching its feeding behaviors or listening to its rapid wingbeats is a reminder of the tiny yet mighty power of migration. 

• Get involved with the Audobon Society: The Audubon Society has been at the forefront of bird conservation for over a century. With more than 40 local chapters, nature centers, and sanctuaries across Florida, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Whether it’s volunteering for habitat restoration, participating in a bird count, or attending educational events, your time and energy can make a difference. Check out your local chapter to see how you can contribute to bird conservation rights in your community. 

• Plant bird-friendly plants: Transform your yard, balcony, or community garden into a bird-friendly habitat. Migratory birds depend on healthy stopover sites to rest and refuel. Planting native plants not only provides food like berries, seeds, and nectar but also attracts the insects that many birds rely on. Add a birdbath or small water feature and be sure to offer some dense shrubs or brush piles where birds can hide from predators.  

• Turn off the lights: Artificial light pollution poses a serious threat to migratory birds, especially during night flights. Bright city lights can confuse and disorient birds, leading to collisions with buildings. You can help by participating in “Lights Out” efforts: turn off all non-essential outdoor lights from 11 p.m. to sunrise, especially during peak migration seasons in spring and fall. You can use the BirdCast map to track when peak migration is for your area! Encourage your community or workplace to do the same: it’s a simple act that can save countless birds. 

This World Migratory Bird Day, take a moment to appreciate the incredible journeys these winged travelers make each year. Whether through planting, observing, or advocating, we all have a role to play in making sure the skies remain safe for birds now and into the future. 

Information from UF/IFAS Blogs, United Nations Climate Change, UF/IFAS Gardening Solutions, and American Bird Conservancy. Image by Dennis Vollmar (CC-BY).