Written by KRCA intern, Tshepho Dikobo.

Birds undertake migration to relocate from areas where resources are low or decreasing to areas where resources are high or increasing, with the main resources sought being food and nesting locations. This remarkable behaviour can involve journeys spanning hundreds or even thousands of kilometers as birds seek to meet their fundamental needs. However, taking on these long-distance journeys proves to be an arduous effort and involves many threats often caused by human activities.

Why is it important?

World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is celebrated globally as an annual awareness-raising campaign that aims to increase public knowledge and understanding of the importance of protecting migratory birds and their habitats. The campaign serves as a reminder of the significant ecological, cultural, and economic roles that migratory birds play in sustaining healthy ecosystems and human well-being. Through educational initiatives, outreach activities, and conservation efforts, WMBD encourages individuals, organisations, and governments to take action to conserve and protect these incredible creatures and their habitats, ensuring their survival for future generations. This year’s campaign highlights the importance of water for bird life and the need for international cooperation to conserve them.

Importance of conservation efforts

Migratory birds heavily rely on well-connected networks or chains of habitats along their migration routes for survival. These habitats serve as critical stopover points where birds can refuel and rest before continuing their journey. The availability and quality of these habitats greatly influence the success of migratory bird populations. Unfortunately, aquatic ecosystems are becoming increasingly threatened around the world, and so are the migratory birds that depend on them. Therefore, conservation efforts aimed at preserving and restoring these habitats are crucial for ensuring the long-term survival of migratory bird species.

Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area (KRCA)

Nature Connect manages Kenilworth Racecourse Conservation Area, an island within the urban matrix of Cape Town that boasts 16 seasonal wetlands, serving as a vital refuge for a diverse array of wildlife, particularly migratory birds. This provides a corridor for these species as they migrate into or past South Africa. A total of 33 different migratory bird species have been recorded in KRCA, including the Booted Eagle, Greater-striped Swallow, Caspian Tern, Ethiopian Snipe, African Spoonbill, and Wood Sandpiper.

Greater-striped Swallow (Cecropis cucullata)

Booted Eagle (Hieraaetus pennatus)

What individual efforts can be done?

1. Participate in water awareness programs and become a water warrior.
2. Join a local river clean-up or initiate one.
3. Join a beach clean-up.
4. Remove invasive alien plants from freshwater bodies with your friends.
5. Attend or organise bird festivals.
6. Engage in bird watching at your local reserve.
7. Switch to eco-friendly farming methods.
8. Donate to organisations dedicated to conserving birdlife.
9. Share this information and spread awareness for World Migratory Birds Day with your friends!