Iran (IMNA) - This annual campaign aims to raise global awareness about the ecological importance of these birds and the threats they face, while advocating for international cooperation in their conservation efforts.
Celebrated worldwide, WMBD inspires a variety of public events such as bird festivals, educational programs, exhibitions, and bird-watching excursions. While the main celebrations occur on the second Saturday in May and October, activities can be organized year-round to align with local migration patterns.
For the first time, WMBD will focus on the crucial role of insects in the lives of migratory birds, addressing concerns over declining insect populations. Insects serve as vital energy sources for many migratory species during breeding seasons and long journeys, significantly influencing migration timing and success.
As birds travel along their migration routes, they actively seek insects in diverse habitats during stopovers. The timing of migrations often aligns with peak insect availability, which is essential for replenishing energy reserves.
However, threats to insect populations—such as habitat loss due to intensive agriculture and urban development—pose risks to bird survival. Pesticides and herbicides not only harm insects but also jeopardize the health of migratory birds by reducing their food sources. A decline in energy-rich insects can lead to weakened immune systems and decreased reproductive success among birds.
The 2024 WMBD campaign advocates for proactive conservation measures, including reducing pesticide use and transitioning to organic farming. It also emphasizes maintaining natural vegetation areas that provide food and shelter for birds within agricultural landscapes.
In related news, Iran hosts over 5% of the world's wintering migratory birds across 450 sites. The country's diverse wetlands attract millions of migratory birds annually, with over 1.8 million individuals from 166 species counted each winter. Iran has participated in the International Waterfowl Census since 1976, contributing valuable data for wetland conservation efforts.
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