Accra:The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has emphasized the crucial need to protect migratory birds and preserve their natural habitats and migration routes. This call to action seeks to involve the public in monitoring and documenting bird sightings to enhance biodiversity conservation efforts.

According to Qatar News Agency, the ministry highlighted that World Migratory Bird Day, celebrated annually on October 10, serves as a reminder of the importance of these efforts. The ministry encourages the public and birdwatching enthusiasts to contribute to a biodiversity database by recording sightings of migratory species. This data supports scientific studies on migration routes, bird population changes, and the habitats they rely on.

Qatar serves as a pivotal stopover for migratory birds traveling from Europe, northern Asia, Siberia, and Central Asia to wintering grounds in Africa and South Asia. The country’s strategic position along the Afro-Eurasian migratory network and the Central Asian Flyway provides essential rest and feeding opportunities for these birds. The autumn migration season, beginning at the end of summer and peaking in September and October, brings a variety of species through the region.

Among the early arrivals are the blue-cheeked bee-eater, golden oriole, and European roller, with some species resting in Qatar for the winter. Al Thakhira Nature Reserve, with its mangroves and mudflats, offers vital habitats for many birds, including the osprey. Bin Ghanam Island and Qatar's northern shores also serve as important sites for flamingos and coastal birds.

The ministry reminded the public of regulations governing bird hunting, noting that the 2026 hunting season started on September 1 and will continue until February 15, 2027, as per Ministerial Decision No. 7 of 2026. This decision outlines the permitted hunting of specific bird species and the authorized methods and equipment. Hunting of any other wild animal, bird, or reptile not listed is prohibited.

The ministry insists on compliance with these regulations to protect bird gathering and resting sites. It urges the public to avoid disturbing birds and damaging their habitats, and to actively support the protection of migratory species and the preservation of natural environments crucial to their annual journeys.