National Bird Day (January 5)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

Birds are an essential part of our world, from the tiniest hummingbirds to the mighty bald eagle.

National Bird Day, observed annually on January 5th, is a time to recognize and appreciate these incredible creatures while raising awareness about bird conservation.

Whether you’re an avid bird watcher, an animal advocate, or just someone who enjoys seeing birds in your backyard, this day is a perfect opportunity to learn, engage, and protect our feathered friends.

Plus, it’s just one of the many weird holidays in January!

When is the Holiday?

The holiday is celebrated every year on January 5th.

This annual observance is dedicated to increasing awareness about the plight of birds in captivity and the importance of bird conservation in the wild.

Who Invented It?

National Bird Day was founded in 2002 by Born Free U.S.A. and the Avian Welfare Coalition.

Their goal was to bring attention to the declining bird populations and advocate for the ethical treatment of birds in captivity.

The holiday encourages people to take action by supporting conservation efforts and adopting rescued birds responsibly.

The History of the Holiday

Birds have been revered for centuries in cultures worldwide.

Many Native American tribes consider specific bird species sacred, and the bald eagle serves as the national bird of the United States.

However, due to habitat destruction and illegal pet trade, nearly 12% of bird species face the threat of extinction.

The holiday aims to shed light on these challenges and inspire action to protect bird populations.

eastern bluebird on a branch

Top 5 Facts About National Bird Day

  1. Over 10,000 bird species exist worldwide, but about 1,200 are at risk of extinction.
  2. The holiday highlights the ethical concerns of keeping birds as pets, emphasizing proper care and conservation.
  3. Many bird lovers celebrate by adopting birds from rescue organizations instead of purchasing them from pet stores.
  4. The day coincides with the annual Christmas Bird Count, a long-standing birdwatching event to track population changes.
  5. Conservationists use this holiday to promote awareness about the illegal bird trade and the importance of protecting wild birds.

Activities to Celebrate

  • Go Bird Watching: Spend some time observing birds in your backyard or visit a nature reserve.
  • Build a Birdhouse: Create a safe space for local birds by making a birdhouse or feeder.
  • Adopt a Bird: Support bird rescue organizations by adopting a bird in need.
  • Learn About Bird Conservation: Read books or watch documentaries about bird species and conservation efforts.
  • Teach Kids About Birds: Use educational printables and activities to engage children in learning about different bird species.

Related Recipes

  • Birdseed Ornaments. A fun and easy DIY treat for backyard birds. These ornaments are made using birdseed, gelatin, and cookie cutters to create decorative shapes that birds will love to snack on during the winter.
  • Chocolate Pretzel Bird Nests. A simple, three-ingredient treat made with chocolate, pretzels, and candy eggs. These crunchy and sweet snacks resemble little bird nests and are a fun activity for kids to make.
  • Owl Love You Cake Pops. Adorable bird-themed desserts perfect for kids. These cake pops are shaped like owls and decorated with candy eyes and frosting, making them a fun and festive way to celebrate.
  • Meringue Bird’s Nest Cupcakes. A creative and tasty way to celebrate. Light and airy meringue is piped into nest shapes, baked until crisp, and then filled with cream or fruit for a delightful treat.
  • Easy Chinese Bird’s Nest Soup. A traditional delicacy made from the nests of swiftlets, prized for its texture and believed health benefits. This simplified version steams pre-cleaned bird’s nests with goji berries and coconut juice for a lightly sweet, nourishing dessert.
Pileated Woodpecker on birch tree trunk

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Links to Resources

  • Types of Birds Worksheet. Learn about different bird species with this engaging worksheet designed for kids and bird enthusiasts alike.
  • Free Bird Journal Printables. Keep track of birdwatching adventures with these printable pages, perfect for documenting bird species, habitats, and behaviors.
  • Birdhouse Building Guide. Step-by-step instructions on how to build the perfect birdhouse to attract local birds and provide them with a safe nesting space.
  • National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America. A comprehensive guide featuring detailed illustrations and essential information on North American bird species, making it a must-have for birdwatchers of all levels.
  • Binoculars. A crucial tool for birdwatching, allowing you to observe birds up close and appreciate their intricate details and behaviors.

Related Holidays

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