World Migratory Bird Day 2025: Shared Spaces, Shared Responsibility

May 10th marks the first of two annual celebrations of World Migratory Bird Day — a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the incredible journeys of migratory birds and the challenges they face. This year’s theme, "Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities," highlights the importance of designing environments that support both birds and people.

Birds in Our Backyards

As towns and cities expand, migratory birds are increasingly relying on urban parks, gardens, and green spaces as stopover points during their long flights. These areas are vital for feeding, resting, and nesting — but they can also present risks, including habitat loss, building collisions, and light pollution.

In the UK, species like the Swallow, House Martin, and Swift return each spring to raise their young. Their presence is a reminder that our homes and gardens play an essential role in the broader ecosystem.

Seasonal Migrants in the UK

The UK is a key destination and waypoint for a wide variety of migratory bird species. Some arrive in spring to breed, while others visit in autumn and winter to escape harsher northern climates. Here are just a few examples:

Swifts

Swifts are among the most iconic summer visitors. Arriving in late April or early May from Africa, they spend just a few short months in the UK to breed before heading south again. Look out for their distinctive, scythe-shaped wings and fast, screaming flight overhead.

Swallows and House Martins

These two species also make the journey from sub-Saharan Africa each spring. Swallows prefer open countryside and nest in barns or sheds, while House Martins build mud nests under the eaves of buildings. Both feed on flying insects and are a welcome sight each year.

Redwings and Fieldfares

In contrast, Redwings and Fieldfares visit the UK in autumn and stay through the winter, migrating from Scandinavia and Iceland. These birds can be spotted in flocks, feeding on hedgerow berries and fallen fruit during colder months.

Pink-Footed Geese

Large numbers of Pink-Footed Geese arrive from Iceland and Greenland in autumn. They form impressive V-shaped formations across the sky and gather in estuaries and farmland, particularly along the east coast and in Scotland.

Whooper and Bewick’s Swans

These elegant swans also migrate to the UK during winter months. Whooper Swans come from Iceland, while Bewick’s Swans travel even further — from Siberia. Both species favour wetlands and flooded fields and can be distinguished from the familiar Mute Swan by their yellow-and-black bills.

By understanding when and why these birds visit, we can better appreciate the importance of maintaining healthy, connected habitats throughout the year.

How You Can Help

Creating bird-friendly communities doesn’t require major changes. Small actions can have a big impact:

• Plant native trees and shrubs to provide food and shelter.

• Turn off unnecessary outdoor lighting during spring and autumn migrations.

• Use window decals or films to help prevent bird collisions.

• Add a clean water source, such as a bird bath or shallow dish.

• Keep domestic cats indoors, especially during nesting and migration seasons.

Global Efforts and Local Actions

World Migratory Bird Day is supported by international conservation agreements that protect flyways and habitats across borders. But action at the local level is just as important. Attending a guided bird walk, joining a conservation group, or simply improving your own garden habitat helps safeguard the future of these birds.

Tune into Our Latest Podcast

To learn more about migratory birds and the conservation work happening across Europe, listen to the latest episode of The Wildlife Community podcast. Presenter Charlie Bingham speaks with Axel and Ario Drioli, founders of Sounding Wild, about their immersive virtual reality birding experience and how it connects people to nature.

Let’s celebrate these global travellers by making our shared spaces safer, greener, and more welcoming — for them and for us.