Protecting Migratory Birds And Their Vital Habitats: The Significance Of World Migratory Bird Day
On the 13th of May 2023, Kenya joined hands with countries worldwide to celebrate World Migratory Bird Day. This international day, observed under the framework of the UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Animals (CMS) and the African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement (AEWA), brings global attention to the importance of conserving migratory birds and their habitats.
Held on the second Saturday of May and October each year, World Migratory Bird Day has been an annual event celebrated in over 130 countries since 2006. The event aims to raise awareness about the need to protect and preserve migratory birds that travel vast distances across the globe. This year’s focus was on highlighting the significance of water to migratory birds and promoting the conservation of water resources for their sake.
Kenya plays host to over 170 species of long-distance migratory birds, mainly originating from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. These avian travelers journeys to Kenya to escape the harsh northern winter and seek out abundant food resources. They begin arriving in October through November, searching for suitable feeding grounds. These birds stay throughout the winter and only start heading back to their breeding grounds in February through March. This annual cycle repeats itself, highlighting the critical role of Kenya as a crucial stopover site for migratory birds.
In Kenya, various organizations, including the Kenya Wildlife Service, National Museums of Kenya, Nature Kenya, Wildlife Research & Training Institute, UNEP/CMS, and UNEP/AEWA Secretariats, collaborated to create this awareness for the migratory birds both nationally and globally.
World Migratory Bird Day serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the need for global collaboration in protecting these avian travelers. By conserving their habitats, we not only safeguard the survival of migratory birds but also contribute to the overall health of our planet.
The East African Rift flyway, a vital migration route, supports over 4 million long-distance migratory birds every season. These birds navigate various landscapes, including the shores of Lake Victoria, the slopes of Mt Elgon, and southeastern South Sudan, before eventually crossing over to the Ethiopian highlands. The preservation of these habitats and ensuring the availability of adequate food and nesting sites are essential for the survival of migratory birds.
Efforts to raise awareness about migratory birds and their conservation involve educating communities, policymakers, and stakeholders about the importance of preserving water resources, which are crucial for the survival of these birds during their journeys. Initiatives such as promoting sustainable water management practices, preserving wetlands, and mitigating pollution can have a significant positive impact on migratory bird populations.
As we celebrate World Migratory Bird Day, let us recognize the immense beauty and ecological value that these birds bring to our world. By protecting their habitats, we ensure the continuation of their awe-inspiring journeys and contribute to the preservation of our planet’s biodiversity. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding these remarkable avian travelers for generations to come.
Voice of Tourism
