Record-breaking day launches the Race to Save Birds
World Migratory Bird Day, Global Big Day and the first-ever Race to Save Birds Challenge united thousands across the world to record more than 7,900 bird species and raise over £12,000.
Header Image: 49 species sighted on our bird walk in Washington, DC.
World Migratory Bird Day united thousands of birders worldwide as they took to their backyards, local parks and trails to count and report as many species as they could for Global Big Day. But something new took flight with them: our first-ever Race to Save Birds Challenge.
This fun and friendly fundraiser invited participants to not only watch birds but help protect them by raising funds vital for global conservation efforts. The results were inspiring with a record-breaking amount of more than 7,900 bird species recorded across continents, and over £12,000 raised.
This wasn’t the only record broken on the day. Our very own Senior Policy Advisor, Noelle Kumpel, successfully (subject to verification) attempted the Guiness World Records for the fastest half marathon dressed as a Scarlet Macaw in support of our Race to Save Birds Campaign.
Behind the number of birds seen, were thousands of people – seasoned birdwatchers, casual observers, families and first-timers. They all contributed to something much bigger than a checklist. Each record provides data on species, populations and behaviours that helps us understand and mitigate the myriad threats they face.
A tremendous thanks to everyone who took part in our Race to Save Birds Challenge, to Global Birding’s Tim Appleton and Penny Robinson, Cornell’s eBird, and Swarovski Optik for making Global Big Day possible, and to the World Migratory Bird Day team for their efforts.
Want to get involved next year?
“I’ve seen firsthand how fragile and vital green spaces can be, as even a small loss can affect the future of birds. Yet, I’ve also seen what’s possible when people come together to protect breeding grounds, restore forests, grasslands and wetlands, and change the way we treat nature. Thank you for making this day special. Keep looking up, keep speaking up, and together we’ll help birds, and all life thrive.” Martin Harper, CEO BirdLife International.
