The skies over Uxbridge are coming alive once again as migratory birds return to the region. Spring migration brings billions of birds north to their breeding grounds — and for local residents, it’s a fleeting chance to see and hear species not present during the rest of the year.
This year, World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) falls on May 10, and Uxbridge is joining the global celebration. This years theme, “Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-friendly Cities and Communities,” emphasizes the role humans play in protecting native bird populations through urban planning and individual actions, said local organizers.
They are highlighting the many ways residents can help, from planting native flora and avoiding pesticides, to reducing plastic waste and taking steps to prevent window collisions — one of the leading causes of bird fatalities, especially with single-family homes.
To spotlight that issue, artist and Uxbridge Bird Team leader Carly Davenport will be painting bird-friendly designs on the lower windows of The Second Wedge Brewing Co. Davenport, who previously created a similar mural at the Uxbridge Municipal Office, says this new work will be customized for the site.
“My goal with the mural is to show the community what bird-friendly windows can look like,” she said. “You can temporarily treat your windows with oil-based paint markers and make your own creative designs. Or you can opt for a more permanent solution, which we’re always happy to talk about. If people are interested, I urge them to get in touch through our Instagram.”
The day will begin early with a “Dawn Chorus” bird walk hosted by the Uxbridge Bird Team and North Durham Nature at Secord Forest from 6 to 9 am. The guided walk offers a chance to experience the sounds of Uxbridge’s permanent and migratory bird residents as they greet the day.
The celebration will continue at 11 am at The Second Wedge with Bird Bingo, community cheer, and the first-ever Great Annual Uxbridge Bird-Calling Competition.
For more information or to register for the Dawn Chorus, visit: www.northdurhamnature.com/walks.php