World Migratory Bird Day: The Routes Crossing Portugal

World Migratory Bird Day, celebrated on 12 October (and also on 13 May), was created by the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) and the AEWA Agreement, in partnership with BirdLife International. The 2024 theme, presented locally as "Migratory Birds: Connecting People and Nature", highlights the preservation of habitats and the routes linking different ecosystems.

Migratory routes in Portugal

• Western Corridor / Sagres: passage of birds of prey such as the black kite and booted eagle, between August and October; Sagres is one of Europe's most important observation points and hosts the Sagres Birdwatching Festival.
• Inland route: crosses the Alentejo, used by griffon vultures, white storks and great bustards, notably around the Guadiana Valley and Castro Verde.
• Tagus estuary: a crucial stopover for flamingos, sandpipers and herons, especially during the winter months.
• Sado estuary: a food-rich habitat for ducks, coots and flamingos, in the Setúbal region.
• Madeira and the Azores: Atlantic resting points for species such as the Cory's shearwater and Monteiro's storm-petrel.

Portugal sits at a strategic point between Europe and Africa, and its nature reserves and parks play an essential role in protecting these routes, strengthening biodiversity and environmental awareness in local communities.