World Migratory Bird Day 2024, Theme, Significance

World Migratory Bird Day in 2024 will be celebrated on two days, 11 May and 12 October, aligning with the cyclic nature of bird migration in different regions across the world.

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World Migratory Bird Day 2024

World Migratory Bird Day is celebrated every year on 11th May and 12th October. It is an annual awareness-raising campaign highlighting the need for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats.

World Migratory Bird Day 2024
Date	May 11, 2024 (spring celebration) and October 12, 2024 (fall celebration).
Theme	Protect Insects, Protect Birds
Why?	Because a thriving insect population ensures the survival of our feathered friends.

World Migratory Bird Day 2024 Theme

The World Migratory Bird Day 2024 Theme is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds”. This year’s campaign will mainly focus on highlighting the vital role that insects play in the lives of migratory birds.

Interdependence Between Birds and Insects

Insects as Vital Energy Sources: Insects provide essential energy for migratory bird species. They are rich in nutrients, offering protein-dense, high-energy food. During migration and other life stages (such as feeding their offspring), birds heavily rely on insects.
Influence on Migration Timing: The presence of insects significantly affects the timing, duration, and overall success of bird migrations. Birds actively forage for insects during stopovers along their migration routes.
Species-Specific Reliance: Different bird species exhibit varying degrees of reliance on insects. For instance:
- Warblers, Flycatchers, Swallows, and Swifts: These species depend heavily on insects.
- Ducks, Shorebirds, and Some Raptors: They also rely on insects during migration and while raising their young.

Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)

About CMS

A UN treaty focusing on migratory animal and habitat conservation.
Brings together Range States to establish coordinated conservation efforts.
Collaborates with various international organizations, NGOs, media, and corporate partners.

Appendix I: Migratory species threatened with extinction