In 2012 the World Migratory Bird Day theme focused on the cultural
relationship between birds and people. Throughout time and across
cultures humans have relied on birds, be it to supply food, to deliver
messages, or to serve as symbols of power and prestige. Amazingly more
than 250 events were registered in 81 countries around the world on May
12th and 13th, showing an increase of 25 % from 2011 and an expansion of
three-fold since its inception in 2006! Humanity’s fascination with migratory birds is evident in the symbolism throughout history in many ancient cultural legends. For example, in Egypt the ancient falcon - headed god Horus and in Peru the Nazca line monuments are testaments to migratory birds’ strong influences on past cultures. Also, many groups and cultures continue to rely economically on migratory birds for their livelihoods, for example through subsistence and the growing global eco-tourism industry. Further, the phenomenon of bird migration is crucial to the web of life, as migrating birds act as indicators of biodiversity, ecosystem health and climate change. Migratory birds also provide essential ecological benefits and services, such as pollination, to the ecosystems we rely on to survive. Considering the cultural, social, historic, economic and spiritual connections we have with birds, it becomes clear that migratory birds and people are inseparably connected in many different ways and on many different levels. However,many human activities including excessive land use ad unsustainable hunting, as well as the impacts of climate change, fishing by - catch and pollution now gravely threaten migratory bird populations around the world
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