This Saturday, May 14, is World Migratory Bird Day, an annual campaign that celebrates migrating bird species across countries and continents (it’s also celebrated in October, this year on October 8.) The 2022 campaign highlights the impact of light pollution on migratory birds, like these nesting ospreys near Kenney Reservoir (above.) According to Environment for the Americas, “artificial light is increasing globally by at least two percent a year … light pollution from homes, businesses, and other infrastructure attracts and disorients nocturnally migrating birds, making them more likely to land in areas where they are more vulnerable to collisions and other dangers … simple steps like dimming, shielding, and turning off external lighting can make a big difference.” Learn more at migratorybirdday.org
Meeker Elementary and Barone Middle School students have enjoyed bird walks over the past few weeks guided by USFS Blanco Ranger District Supervisory Biological Scientist Mary Cunningham (above) in celebration of World Migratory Bird Day. This is the 20th year for the annual bird walks.
The HT hoofed it with students of Andi Duzik’s fifth grade class, who spotted and identified 30+ species in just two hours.
By CAITLIN WALKER | [email protected]
