By Ayla Empey, Brand Communications Manager
Each spring we’re reminded of the incredible journey birds undertake, many flying thousands of kilometers across continents as they return to their breeding grounds. May 10th, World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) marks a time to pause while asking ourselves: how can we make migrating birds’ journeys a little easier?
This year’s theme—“Creating Bird-Friendly Cities & Communities”—is a powerful reminder that the choices we make in our neighbourhoods can ripple out to support birds across the globe. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural area, there are plenty of ways to support the birds returning this spring.
Create and protect habitat for birds
By planting native trees, flowers and shrubs, you can turn your yard or community green space into a vital stopover place for birds to rest, refuel and recharge. If you’re fortunate enough to steward a patch of land, Gardening for Birds is one of the most meaningful ways to support migrating birds.
Photo: Claire Elizabeth Marshall
Keep cats from roaming outside
Cats are natural hunters, and keeping them indoors (or in a cozy “catio”) helps protect birds while keeping your feline friends safe and happy.
Make windows safer for birds
Collisions with windows in residential and commercial buildings are a top threat for birds. Shutting your lights off at night, applying window decals, and positioning feeders and bird baths safely, are easy ways we can make our homes more bird-friendly.
Photo: Ellen Jakubowski
Avoid the use of pesticides
Throughout May, as the temperature warms and insects become more abundant, aerial insectivores, birds that feed almost exclusively on insects in flight, will make their return. Help make a positive change to this declining bird group by avoiding the use of pesticides and herbicides around your home.
Read more about reducing the biggest threats to birds in our You Can Help Guide.
Barn Swallow. Photo: Larry Bond
Looking to make an impact beyond your home?
BFC Logo: Nature Canada
We’re proud to support Nature Canada’s Bird Friendly City program, which helps municipalities create safe, healthy urban environments for birds. Cities like Toronto, Regina, and Vancouver have already earned certification. Could your town be next?
Every action counts!
This World Migratory Bird Day let’s support the beauty and resilience of migratory birds by creating spaces where they can thrive. Whether you’re making changes around your home, or advocating for a Bird Friendly City, your action is an important step in making our communities safer for birds this spring and into the future.