Evanston proclaims May 10 2025 as World Migratory Bird Day

The Evanston City Council meeting on April 28, 2025, featured a significant proclamation recognizing May 10, 2025, as World Migratory Bird Day. This observance highlights the importance of migratory birds, which are vital indicators of a healthy ecosystem and play crucial roles in seed dispersal, pollination, and pest management.

During the meeting, council members emphasized the challenges migratory birds face due to urban development and human activities. They noted the theme for this year's World Migratory Bird Day, "Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities and Communities," which encourages residents to consider their impact on local ecosystems.

Evanston has taken proactive steps to support migratory birds, including adopting a bird-friendly building ordinance aimed at reducing hazards from architecture and lighting. The city is recognized as an official Bird City in Illinois and has integrated bird protection into its climate action resilience plan. Local stewardship groups and city employees are also dedicated to maintaining native plantings and managing invasive species to create a more hospitable environment for these birds.

The proclamation serves not only as a celebration of migratory birds but also as a call to action for residents to engage in conservation efforts. The council urged the community to participate in activities that protect migratory birds and their habitats, reinforcing Evanston's commitment to environmental stewardship.