Every autumn, migratory birds begin their journey, crossing borders and continents as they move between breeding and wintering grounds. They stop at wetlands, marshes, and forests for rest and food before the next stage of their travels.
World Migratory Bird Day, celebrated on October 10th, is held under the slogan 'Every bird matters – your observations are important!'. This campaign emphasizes that eyewitness reports help scientists track migration routes, monitor population numbers, and identify habitats needing protection.
China is home to 1505 bird species, over 800 of which are migratory. Four out of nine major global migration routes pass through this country. Eighty-two key habitats have been identified for enhanced protection and restoration. A national survey conducted in January 2026 recorded 6.324 million waterfowl during the wintering period, with 81.8% of individuals found in protected areas.
A single observation is just one moment in a bird's journey. However, by combining thousands of such observations in different locations and over many years, patterns become visible: migration timing changes, the number of individuals changes, or habitats change. These patterns guide conservation efforts.
This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the International Waterbird Census (IWC)—a global monitoring program launched in 1967. Every year, volunteers and specialists count waterfowl in wetlands worldwide, accumulating long-term data used to assess populations and designate areas for conservation.
Thus, whether it is recording a bird in a local park or participating in a coordinated count, your report contributes to the bigger picture. Together, this data tells the story of migratory birds and helps sustain their journeys from year to year.