Every spring, groups on islands all over the Caribbean celebrate the birds that live only in the region. These events are all part of the Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival, organized by BirdsCaribbean. This year, the theme of the festival is Protect Birds: Be the Solution to Plastic Pollution.
“Plastic pollution is a global problem, and it hurts the Caribbean in many ways,” explained festival coordinator Sheylda Diaz Mendez. “Our islands are home to over 170 birds found nowhere else in the world. They depend on clean wild spaces to live.”
Each year, groups on many islands celebrate these birds in many different ways. Bird walks, lectures, bird crafts and school visits are all part of the festival. The festival teaches how special and unique local wildlife is, and why it is worth protecting. Many of the Caribbean’s unique birds live on only one island and many are very rare.
“When we protect birds, we protect all of nature and ourselves,” said BirdsCaribbean Executive Director Lisa Sorenson. “Festival activities like trash clean-ups, crafts with recycled items and planting native trees help make islands healthier and more beautiful. Everyone wins!”
Caribbean Endemic Bird Festival events are held between Earth Day on April 22nd and International Biodiversity Day on May 22nd. Contact your local environmental group to find out about events on your island, or contact BirdsCaribbean to organize an event of your own.
