Wildlife

Wild Animal Welfare and Migratory Bird Stopover Habitats

Stopover habitats are critical for migratory bird welfare, allowing refuelling and rest during the most energetically demanding journeys in the animal kingdom.

Key Facts

Many migratory songbirds can double their body mass during stopover periods
Coastal scrub, reed beds, and berry-bearing shrubs are critical stopover habitats
Urbanisation is reducing stopover habitat in key coastal migration corridors
Fruit-bearing garden plants significantly support migrating thrushes and warblers
Protected coastal sites support millions of migratory bird overnight stays annually

Welfare Considerations

Migratory bird stopovers determine whether birds survive migration. Preserving and creating stopover habitat is a high-impact, achievable welfare and conservation intervention.

What You Can Do

Plant native berry-bearing shrubs to support migrating birds
Support designation of coastal migration corridors as protected areas
Leave fallen fruit and berry bushes for migrating birds in autumn