WORLD WATERFOWL DAY
January 17 is World Waterfowl Day and we are spreading awareness, knowledge, and interest for waterfowl, as well as the conservation of these birds and their habitats.
#WorldWaterfowlDay
Waterfowl are mid-sized to large birds commonly found on or near water. This group of birds is comprised of more than 170 species of ducks, geese, and swans found throughout the world's wetlands. Sadly, one-third of all wild waterfowl are considered threatened or endangered.
Habitat loss and human population growth are the primary causes of waterfowl declines. Water pollution from agricultural runoff, waste, and other contaminants destroy the food sources for the waterfowl. As wetlands are destroyed, so are essential spots for breeding, nesting, and feeding. World Waterfowl Day presents an opportunity for all of us to work towards the protection, conservation and reproduction of all waterfowl species to stop them from being in danger of extinction.
5 Common Waterfowl Habitats
Waterfowl are incredibly adaptable and can be found on every continent except Antarctica. In fact, they thrive in almost any environment that is near water.
Wetlands provide a safe place for nesting, feeding, and breeding.
Lakes and ponds provide food and shelter.
Rivers and streams are used for travel and foraging.
Agricultural fields and farmlands provide important feeding areas, especially during migration time.
Estuaries found in coastal areas are important feeding and breeding areas.
Protecting waterfowl is crucial. The loss of one species from our ecosystem can have an effect on other species. By protecting waterfowl, we are not only safeguarding the natural world but also the habitats that many other living things rely on - including humans!
5 WAYS TO CELEBRATE WORLD WATERFOWL DAY
Go birding! World Waterfowl Day is all about appreciating waterfowl, wetlands, and nature. Get outdoors and visit your nearest wildlife refuge, park, or nature center to look for and learn about waterfowl and other birds.
Attend an event. Conservation and education organizations worldwide are invited to host their own waterfowl-focused events on or around January 17th. A list of events and participating organizations can be viewed at waterfowlday.org.
Show your support, stories, and photographs of waterfowl during World Waterfowl Day on social media using the hashtag #WorldWaterfowlDay.
Create a wetland area or rain garden near your home using native plants. These plants help to stabilize soil and filter pollution out of rainwater runoff, resulting in cleaner water for everyone.
Support a conservation organization in your area by donating or volunteering your time.
HISTORY BEHIND WORLD WATERFOWL DAY
Sylvan Heights Bird Park created World Waterfowl Day in 2024 to spread awareness, knowledge, and interest for waterfowl. The January 17th date honors Mike Lubbock, one of the world's leading waterfowl conservationists. In addition, World Waterfowl Day is also supported by the International Wild Waterfowl Association.
The Registrar at National Day Calendar approved World Waterfowl Day in 2024 to be celebrated on January 17.
About the Founder
Sylvan Heights Bird Park is a non-profit organization and home to one of the world's largest waterfowl conservation centers. They have been an international center for waterfowl training and research since 1989. Sylvan Heights was founded by world-renowned waterfowl expert Mike Lubbock and his wife, Ali. The Bird Park is dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats, with a particular focus on waterfowl and wetlands. Sadly, Mike passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2024.
In honor of his lifelong commitment to waterfowl, Sylvan Heights Bird Park would like to invite other conservation organizations, wildlife refuges, nature centers, educators, and ornithologists to celebrate World Waterfowl Day by spreading awareness, knowledge, and interest in this often overlooked group of birds. ~Sylvan Heights Bird Park
Mike was born on January 17, 1944. He dedicated his life and career to the conservation of birds, and had a direct role in the recovery of several endangered waterfowl species. He was one of the world's leading waterfowl conservationists and willingly shared his extensive knowledge and passion for birds with many people. He was deeply committed to educating the next generations of wildlife conservationists.