Statement by Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, UN Tourism

As we prepare to celebrate the World Migratory Bird Day on October 12, I am honored to lend my voice to this vital occasion. This year’s theme, “Protect insects, protect birds,” highlights a crucial aspect of our ecosystems—one that connects the beauty and vitality of migratory birds with the health of the environments they traverse. 

Statement by Mr. Mikaël Poutiers, Bern Convention

The celebration of the World Migratory Bird Day on 12 October 2024 emphasises the critical role insects play in the survival of migratory bird species. These birds rely on the abundance of insects, as one of their primary food sources, to sustain their energy needs, especially during breeding and migration periods. 

BirdLife International: No Insects, No Birds - World Migratory Bird Day 2024

Today, on World Migratory Bird Day, we celebrate the essential role insects play in fuelling the journeys of migratory birds across vast distances. These tiny creatures are vital for replenishing the energy reserves of traveling birds of all sizes, influencing the timing, duration, and overall success of their migrations. 

United Nations on World Migratory Bird Day 2024

UNRIC: World Migratory Bird Day 2024: Protect Insects to Protect Birds

For the first time, the upcoming World Migratory Bird Day campaign in 2024 will focus on insects’ importance to migratory birds and highlight concerns related to decreasing insect populations. 

Convention on Biological Diversity: World Migratory Bird Day 2024

Migratory birds are a wonder of nature. They also play an essential role in pollination and pest control, benefitting us as people. We need migratory birds, but what do they need? This World Migratory Bird Day, we focus on insects.