World Migratory Bird Day 2012

The Ethiopian Wildlife Conservation Authority (EWCA) in collaboration with the Ethiopian Wildlife and Natural History Society (EWNHS) and other partners organized a celebration of World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD), on May 12, 2012 at Berga Wetland Important Bird Area. WMBD was initiated in 2006. This year, it was celebrated for the third time nationally and the 7th time globally with a global Theme of “Migratory Birds and People – Together Through Time”.

The event was organized to help elevating awareness of the general public in particular about the importance of White-winged Flufftail (Sarothrura ayresi), a globally threatened species (IUCN Red List Category: Endangered) and about migratory and soaring birds in general. Participants visited the Berga wetland habitat (the only known breeding site) of this unique bird which migrates between Ethiopia and South Africa. Berga Bird Loving Association, which was established in 1994 E.C from four kebels of the surrounding area with financial and technical support from EWNHS, helps to protect the bird and its habitat especially during its breeding season at Berga wetland from mid of June until September.