Bird migration – usually people automatically connect it with lightness, freedom and a kind of mystery and magic. But the reality birds are facing on their long journeys most of the time is everything but easy. Sadly but true, next to the natural obstacles and unfavourable weather birds are already facing, they are increasingly confronted with man-made barriers during migration. Rotating wind turbines, crossing power lines, skyscraping radio, TV and cell phone transmission masts, reflecting plate glass windows, tall buildings and other constructions are killing or displacing large numbers of birds along their flyways every year.

World Migratory Bird Day 2009 will focus on these man-made obstacles to bird migration and wants to raise awareness of the difficult and often underestimated situation faced by migratory birds on their travels. Solutions do exist and they have to be used to avoid the negative effects of man-made structures on bird populations and their migration.

“Barriers to migration” will be the theme of WMBD 2009 and we invite all national authorities, NGOs, clubs and societies, universities, schools and individuals worldwide to highlight WMBD 2009 by organizing awareness-raising programs, festivals or other related events on this year's topic during the weekend of 9 -10 May 2009.

WMBD materials, including a new 2009 WMBD Poster and designated website are currently being developed by the AEWA Secretariat WMBD Team and will be available as of January 2009. For questions, feedback and possibilities regarding sponsorship of the event, please contact us at: [email protected]