Happy World Migratory Bird Day!
Last May 11 was World Migratory Bird Day!
This year’s theme, Protect Insects, Protect Birds, focuses on the importance of insects to migratory birds as essential food sources especially during their extensive migration journeys.
To celebrate, we’re featuring the incredible Far Eastern Curlew (Numenius madagascariensis)! This majestic shorebird embarks on epic journeys across the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, relying on insects as a crucial source of sustenance. It uses its long, curved bill to feed, probing the shores for insect larvae, amphipods, and other tiny invertebrates.
Sadly, habitat loss, disturbances, and potential declines in food availability have caused a heartbreaking reduction in their population to the point that it’s been classified as Endangered by the IUCN.
All is not lost, though! By protecting insects, we can directly contribute to the survival of the Far Eastern Curlew and countless other migratory bird species.
One way you can make a difference in their conservation is by supporting organizations and initiatives dedicated to preserving crucial stopover sites and breeding grounds along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. These habitats are vital for migratory birds like the Far Eastern Curlew to rest, refuel, and reproduce during their remarkable journeys.
If you have more information on shorebirds and other non-fish organisms, we’ll be happy to have you as one of our collaborators. Let us know by sending us an email or visiting our Facebook page.
This story was first posted on our Facebook page last May 11, 2024.
