Over 10,000 kilometers in just two months. That’s the astonishing distance Hera, a European Roller tagged by BirdLife South Africa, flew to get to her breeding grounds in Uzbekistan. Beginning over the Easter weekend, Hera’s migration along the Eastern African Eurasian Flyway is not only a marvel of endurance but also a symbol of the ongoing efforts to protect migratory birds and their fragile ecosystems.
This World Migratory Bird Day, with the theme “Protect Insects, Protect Birds,” BirdLife South Africa is shining a light on the interconnectedness of species and ecosystems. Insects are a critical food source for many migratory birds, including European Rollers like Hera. As insect populations decline due to habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change, birds face greater challenges in completing their long migrations.
A Journey of Hope and Resilience
Hera’s journey is not just about survival. It’s a story of resilience, hope, and the incredible natural processes that sustain life across borders. As we track Hera’s flight through satellite technology, we gain valuable insights into the migration routes, stopover points, and challenges she encounters along the way. Currently positioned in India, we look forward to watching what route Hera takes to get back to South Africa in the coming weeks. This knowledge is crucial for designing effective conservation strategies to protect migratory birds and the ecosystems they rely on.
Jessica Wilmot, Flyway and Migrants Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa, explains: “Hera’s journey gives us hope for the future. Her migration tells us that, despite the odds, these birds are resilient. But they need our help. World Migratory Bird Day reminds us that protecting these birds starts with protecting the insects they rely on, the habitats they visit, and the ecosystems that sustain them.”
BirdLife South Africa’s Commitment to Protecting Migratory Birds
BirdLife South Africa’s European Roller monitoring project, which tracks birds like Hera, is just one of the ways we are working to protect migratory species. The data we collect from satellite tags allows us to map the full migration cycle of these birds, helping us identify critical habitats and potential threats along their flyways. But protecting migratory birds goes beyond research – it’s about creating lasting change by raising awareness, advocating for policies that preserve biodiversity, and fostering international cooperation.
This World Migratory Bird Day, we’re asking the public to join us in this mission. Migratory birds like Hera connect ecosystems across continents, and their survival depends on the actions we take today.
How You Can Get Involved
BirdLife South Africa invites you to be part of the movement to protect migratory birds:
- Support our research: Your donations help fund satellite tags that allow us to track birds like Hera, providing the data we need to safeguard their migration routes.
- Create insect-friendly spaces: You can help protect insects by reducing pesticide use, planting native species, and creating habitats that support a diverse insect population – essential food for migratory birds.
- Spread the word: Share Hera’s story and the importance of migratory birds with your community. Join local birdwatching events, support conservation initiatives, and raise awareness on social media using #WorldMigratoryBirdDay.
The Power of Global Collaboration
Hera’s journey is a testament to the importance of global cooperation in conserving migratory birds. These birds cross national borders, connecting countries and communities through their migrations. To protect them, we need to work together – locally, nationally, and internationally. By working together, we can ensure that migratory birds continue to thrive for generations to come.
Let’s make this World Migratory Bird Day a call to action. Together, we can protect birds, insects, and the interconnected web of life they are part of.
