To maintain a healthy eco-system and signalling broader environmental changes, migratory birds play a vital role. So, their protection is crucial to harmonize the said circles, opined Deputy Director Communication and spokesperson for the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (MoCC&EC), Muhammad Saleem Shaikh in a press statement in the context of the World Migratory Bird Day2025.

He said, “Pakistan joined the global community in celebrating World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) 2025 on May 10, highlighting its unwavering commitment to protecting migratory bird species and their habitats from growing threats”. The ministry official highlighted that this year’s theme, “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities,” emphasises for all the government, non-governmental stakeholders and communities the unprecedented significance of transforming the country’s urban and suburban environments into safe havens for migratory birds. It is necessary to ensure sustainable urban development prioritising ecological balance and biodiversity.

He said, “With over two-thirds of the country’s bird species being migratory, Pakistan serves as a critical stopover and breeding ground along major migratory routes. However, their conservation is not only a national ecological responsibility but also a commitment under international treaties like the UN Convention on Migratory Species”. The ministry official said, “Pakistan is home to a rich diversity of migratory birds, with nearly 70% of the country’s 668 bird species undertaking seasonal journeys. Rapid urban expansion, the proliferation of glass buildings, habitat degradation, and light pollution pose severe risks to migratory birds, often leading to fatal collisions and disorientation during flight”.

He said that WMBD 2025 draws urgent attention to these challenges and calls for bird-friendly urban planning practices such as using bird-safe glass, managing night-time lighting, preserving wetlands, planting native vegetation, and enforcing bans on illegal hunting, the ministry official added. Muhammad Saleem said, “There is need for creating public awareness at all levels about unprecedented importance of the migratory birds being vital indicators of ecosystem health and that their presence reflects the condition of natural habitats like wetlands, forests, rivers and grasslands. Besides, birds contribute to essential ecological functions such as pollination, seed dispersal, insect control, and nutrient cycling”.

He emphasised Pakistan’s active participation in international conservation efforts as a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). Under the CMS, and robust national policies, Pakistan is committed to ensuring safe passage and secure stopovers for migratory birds. These efforts are not only essential for wildlife conservation but also vital for the health of our ecosystems.

The ministry spokesperson Muhammad Saleem remarked, “Protecting migratory birds is not just about conserving wildlife. It is more importantly about safeguarding the country’s environmental integrity, fulfilling international obligations, and ensuring a sustainable future.” In this regard, WMBD 2025 serves as a global reminder that every action count—no matter how small—towards securing the future of migratory birds and the planet we all call home, he remarked.

 Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)