,

SPREAD YOUR WINGS FOR BIRD CONSERVATION

International Migratory Bird Day International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) celebrates and brings attention to bird migration, one of the most important and spectacular events in the Americas. IMBD began in 1993 and is now hosted at more than 600 sites from Canada to Argentina. Environment for the Americas, with the collaboration of international sponsors and partners, fosters bird conservation education in the Western Hemisphere through International Migratory Bird Day.

History


 

International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) was created in 1993 by visionaries at the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center and the Cornell Laboratory of Ornithology. From 1995 to 2006, the program was under the direction of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Because of its consistent growth, IMBD is now the premier education project of Environment for the Americas.

IMBD continues to focus attention on one of the most important and spectacular events in the life of a migratory bird — its journey between its summer and winter homes. Today, it is celebrated in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and Central America through bird festivals and bird walks, education programs, and Bird Day! We invite you to join us in this important celebration.

When is IMBD?


 

Though IMBD can be celebrated any day, the official day in Canada & the United States is the second Saturday in May. In Latin America & the Caribbean it is usually celebrated the second Saturday in October. Because birds do not migrate on one single day, we encourage organizations to celebrate when it is best for their schedule and when birds are present. Prompting annual activities is one aspect of IMBD, but encouraging year-round awareness and education is the goal. Every day is Bird Day!

Why?


 

Migratory birds are among the most beautiful, observable, and remarkable wildlife. They are symbolic harbingers of the seasons, provide countless economical and environmental services, and are indicators of healthy habitats. Public awareness and concern are crucial components of migratory bird conservation. Citizens who are enthusiastic about birds, informed about threats, and empowered to become involved in addressing those threats, can make a tremendous contribution to maintaining healthy bird populations. One of the most successful vehicles for engaging new environmental stewards is IMBD.

Where?


 

Across the Americas, Bird Day events and programs provide great ways for people to get involved in learning about birds and bird conservation. IMBD is celebrated in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Programs are hosted at a variety of venues such as universities, elementary schools, zoos, botanical gardens, national parks, protected wildlife areas, libraries, and museums. IMBD can be coordinated by students, city staff, bird clubs, teachers, and you. Join the campaign to increase awareness of our shared birds!

 

Many Ways to Celebrate


 

Whether short and sweet, or a week-long festival, International Migratory Bird Day is an opportunity to introduce the general public to bird conservation. How you choose to share information about birds and conservation is up to you! We are always availabe to help plan your celebration.

 

Lead a Birdwalk to show people the birds that live around them.

 

Create an Educational Activity using IMBD materials to share your passion.

 

Plant Native to enhance and create habitat for birds.

 

Incorporate the Arts by hosting an art contest or musical concert.

 

Create a Display to share your exhibits at libraries, zoos, museums, parks, schools, and forests.

 

Offer Presentations that inform youth groups, students, congregations, friends, and family

 

Learn here about the birds that migrate to the Dominican Republic