Egypt: More than 354.5K observed during this fall/spring season

A steppe eagle - CC via Flickr/ Birds of Gilgit-Baltistan
CAIRO – 11 May 2025: The Egyptian Society for the Conservation of Nature announced that, so far this fall/spring season, 354,571 migratory birds have been recorded at the Galala Bird Observatory. Among the 34 species observed, the site documented the passage of more than 90% of the global population of steppe eagles and over 50% of the global population of Levant sparrowhawks. These figures highlight Egypt's pivotal role as a global data source in bird migration monitoring and conservation.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Environment, Egypt joined countries around the world in celebrating World Migratory Bird Day, observed this year on May 10 under the theme Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities." The annual event, held on the second Saturday of May, underscores the critical need to design and manage urban environments that support both human populations and migratory bird species.
This year's theme emphasizes the importance of strategic urban planning and the adoption of bird-friendly practices to reverse alarming declines in bird populations. It also calls for collective action from governments, local authorities, businesses, and civil society to create safe spaces for migratory birds in and around urban areas.
Minister of Environment Dr. Yasmine Fouad highlighted the Ministry's active participation in the national celebration organized by the Egyptian Society for the Conservation of Nature at the Galala Bird Observatory, one of the most significant migratory bird monitoring sites in Egypt. The event brought together nature experts, observers, and media professionals who documented bird sightings to be uploaded to the global eBird platform—contributing valuable data to international bird conservation efforts.
Fouad stressed that World Migratory Bird Day serves as a key opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of migratory birds and the many threats they face along their journeys. These include habitat destruction, illegal hunting, pollution, and the growing impact of climate change. She underscored Egypt's commitment to supporting international conservation programs, protecting natural habitats, combating poaching, and enforcing wildlife protection laws.
The Minister elaborated on the factors driving bird migration, such as the search for food, escape from harsh weather, and the need for suitable breeding and nesting conditions. Environmental stressors like climate change, water shortages, and pollution also play a major role, often forcing birds to relocate in search of more viable habitats. Competition for resources is another driver of migratory behavior.
Dr. Fouad also noted the ecological importance of migratory birds. These species play vital roles in pollination, pest control, and maintaining the balance of various ecosystems. Moreover, birds serve as early indicators of environmental health and climate change impacts.
She warned of the increasing threats to migration routes, including the loss of forests and wetlands, pollution, and illegal poaching. Climate change, she said, is particularly disruptive, altering bird migration patterns and threatening the survival of some species.
The Minister emphasized the need for enhanced public awareness and international cooperation to protect migratory birds and preserve the biodiversity that is an essential part of both Egypt's natural heritage and the global environment.

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