World Migratory Bird Day is about celebrating some of the most well-travelled creatures on our planet—birds! 

This year's focus brings attention to the many ways in which insects of all types support their travel across North America. 

In addition to their role in maintaining healthy ecosystems, migratory birds hold a special place in many cultures and traditions around the world. Yet, because of human actions, these awe-inspiring creatures remain some of the most at-risk species on Earth. Threats such as habitat loss, pesticides, insecticides, cat predation, climate change, window strikes and road collisions are all negatively impacting our feathered friends. 

We have lost nearly 3 billion birds in North America alone over the last 50 years, with aerial insectivores (birds who rely on bugs as their major good source) having lost more than half of their numbers. 

Threats from human-related causes, like the increased and widespread use of pesticides, herbicides and insecticides in agriculture, forestry, and our own homes have played a huge role in this overall loss. With the increase in habitat loss associated with urbanization and pollution, the impact it has on migratory birds cannot be ignored. We must take the necessary steps to put habitat conservation and restoration solutions into action now. We know the risk that pesticides pose on our feathered friends and we must do more to help them. 

We can help restore their populations as well as help bring insects back from the brink as we work towards building communities that centre birds and nature —all it takes is a little teamwork and proper planning. 

As we celebrate World Migratory Bird Day on May 11th, consider what steps you can take to help reverse these longstanding bird and insect declines in your community. 

Below are some helpful ideas that you can implement at home.

1. Host a WMBD event and share the message of “Protect Insects, Protect Birds!” Share these messages through social media and with your community to increase awareness of this important issue by hosting a World Migratory Bird Day event in your community related to the conservation theme.

2. Reduce your use of harmful insecticides and other inorganic pesticides. Choose bird and environmentally-friendly alternatives such as Diatomaceous earth, Neem Oil, Peppermint oil and soap spray. The birds and bugs will thank you. 

3. Choose to plant native in your garden and stop the use of chemical fertilizers. In the last 150 years the globe has lost 5-10% of all insect species, many more may go unaccounted for. These chemicals can seep into groundwater which can then make its way into wetlands and impact wildlife and humans. Instead, try to use natural alternatives like animal manure and compost to fertilize your garden while avoiding the use of pesticides, insecticides and herbicides. Diversity in planting will attract birds and certain insects that serve the role of insect pest control without the negative consequence of chemical pesticides and also serve as a food source for our feathered friends. 

4. Volunteer in your community. See if any volunteer opportunities near you focus on environmental restoration such as litter cleanup, water quality and bio blitz, planting native, locally sourced trees and shrubs, establishing pollinator gardens and joining or starting a Bird Friendly team. 

5. Advocate for insecticide, herbicide and pesticide regulation and reduction. Progressive municipal, Provincial and Territorial policy is needed to protect our planet, birds and bugs. Protecting the natural areas we already have is a great place to start!

For additional resources, visit www.naturecanada.ca/bfc to learn how we are working to create Bird Friendly Cities and to get involved.