Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with guided walks and bird-friendly activities

Kawartha Lakes – Spring migration season is underway, and birds are returning to Kawartha Lakes in one of nature’s most incredible journeys. To celebrate World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) on May 9, residents and visitors are invited to connect with nature through guided bird walks, educational events, and simple actions that help protect local bird populations.

This year’s theme highlights the importance of citizen science to migratory bird conservation. During their migratory season, birds are at their most colourful and vocal and you can watch them claiming territory, courting, and nesting. Using the free Merlin app, you can identify birds from their songs and calls or their appearance. By recording what you encounter on the free eBird app, you can contribute valuable data for scientists.

“During the spring migration, you can find birds anywhere: in backyards, parks, along our many trails, and in our conservation areas,” said Jamie Morris, Chair of Bird Friendly Kawartha Lakes. “We hope everyone will get outside to enjoy and get to know [the birds]. We also hope everyone will help protect migrating birds by keeping cats indoors, turning off lights at night and creating backyard habitat.” 

Many bird species travel after dark and can become disoriented by artificial lighting. Residents and businesses are encouraged to join in by reducing unnecessary outdoor lighting overnight where possible.

Take action

World Migratory Bird Day 2026 invites everyone to participate through the following:

• Host a World Migratory Bird Day event: Anyone can host a WMBD event to bring their community closer to nature and to educate on conservation for migratory birds. Find event resources at www.migratorybirdday.org
• Participate in global counts: Join a community science project for bird conservation like the International Waterbird Census (IWC), the Christmas Bird Count, or local breeding bird surveys.
• Report marked birds: If you see a banded bird, report it to help scientists track individual journeys.
• Adopt a monitoring site: Commit to regularly watching a specific local patch.
• Practice ethical birding: Minimize disturbance to nests and feeding areas. “Leave no trace” to ensure birds remain safe while being observed.

“The library is pleased to work with Bird Friendly Kawartha Lakes on a series of engaging, family-friendly programs that celebrate local bird conservation and learning,” said Marieke Junkin, Manager of Public Services and Programming at Kawartha Lakes Library. “These events are being offered in recognition of World Migratory Bird Day, to raise awareness about migratory birds and the importance of protecting the habitats they rely on during their long seasonal journeys.”

On Saturday May 9, visitors to both the Lindsay and Kinmount branches can explore special lobby displays hosted by Bird Friendly Kawartha Lakes. Volunteers will be on site with handouts and practical conservation tips, along with origami crafts. At the Lindsay branch, children and caregivers can also drop in to create their own pinecone bird feeders, a simple, hands-on activity that supports backyard birdlife.

Other local events include Kawartha Conservation’s ‘Spring Fling’ at Ken Reid Conservation Area, and guided bird walks/hikes put on by Kawartha Field Naturalists.

For more event details, bird walk locations, and workshop information, visit the Bird Friendly City page on the Kawartha Lakes website.