Bird migration is a critical gauge of biodiversity, ecosystem well-being, and the impacts of climate change. World Migratory Bird Day is observed twice a year: on the second Saturday of May and again on the second Saturday of October. The historical backdrop for establishing this day was the International Convention for the Protection of Birds signed in 1906. World Migratory Bird Day was launched in 2006 as an awareness campaign, aiming to create conducive conditions for migratory birds and their habitats worldwide.
Millions of birds undertake extensive journeys across seas, mountains, and plains each year to ensure survival. Regrettably, the population of migratory species continues to decline due to human activities. Preserving migratory birds and their habitats was the central focus of an environmental event for 3rd-grade students, held at the Uzhhorod Greek Catholic Private Lyceum “TheoBand“. Olha Velychkanych, the head of the Biology and Experimental Work Department at PADIUN and an IRCEF expert, led the event.
During the presentation on “World Migratory Bird Day,” the children learned about the history of this crucial date on the ecological calendar, the reasons behind bird migration, and the adverse impacts of human activity on this process. They also reviewed the species of migratory birds in our region. Birds cover several thousand kilometers during their travels, a remarkable spectacle of nature. On their journey, they encounter numerous challenges and dangers, which were comprehensively analyzed by the young conservationists during the event. Weather stands as one of the most significant dangers. Many birds make stops during migration to rest, feed, and replenish their energy reserves in wetlands. These areas are vital for successful migration. However, when people disrupt these habitats through activities such as deforestation or marsh drainage, many migratory birds perish due to a lack of food. Unfortunately, migratory birds also fall victim to hunters and poachers. Moreover, the brightly lit large buildings at night (lighthouses, monuments, TV towers, skyscrapers) and power lines, all associated with human activity, pose significant threats to birds.
During their migration routes, birds face threats from various predators, and they must maneuver skillfully to evade them and survive. Celebrating World Migratory Bird Day offers everyone the chance to contribute to bird protection, biodiversity conservation, and the reduction of threats to birds Students participated in activities such as answering bird riddles, playing the didactic game “Migratory and wintering birds of Transcarpathia,” and deciphering anagrams to strengthen their comprehension.
The event was held between the Interreligious and Environmental Civil Forum of Eastern Europe (IRCEF) (led by Olexander Bokotey) and the German Nature Conservation Union (NABU Bundesverband, NABU International), project coordinators Ivan Tymofeiev (NABU), Nataliya Kulya (IRCEF).
Olga Velychkanych,
Head of the Biology Department at PADIUN and IRCEF expert
