Findlay Times

Congressman Bob Latta and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur have introduced a resolution to declare May 9 through May 18, 2025, as "National American Birding Week." Birdwatching, a popular activity with significant economic impact, faces the challenge of declining migratory bird populations due to various threats.

The initiative celebrates birding's contribution to the economy while addressing conservation issues. Events like the "Biggest Week in American Birding," organized by the Black Swamp Bird Observatory in Oak Harbor, Ohio, highlight these efforts. Such events bring together government, nonprofit, and private entities to promote both the conservation of migratory birds and economic growth.

Congressman Latta explained, "Birdwatching in Ohio is a year-round activity, with a wide variety of birds and over 400 species to spot. There is a reason Northwest Ohio is dubbed the 'Warbler Capital of the World,' and I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with Congresswoman Kaptur, to continue recognizing the art of birdwatching, support local conservation and to encourage more people to get outside enjoy birdwatching during National American Birding Week."

Congresswoman Kaptur added, "Our bipartisan resolution calls attention to the array of natural and human-caused threats to migratory bird populations, emphasizes contributions birders make to local economies, and applauds the cooperation among governments, conservation organizations, and businesses." She encouraged Ohioans and bird enthusiasts nationwide to join the celebration and participate in conservation-focused events such as the "Biggest Week in American Birding."

Each spring, approximately 3.5 billion birds migrate across the United States, facing threats like habitat loss and collisions. Despite these challenges, an estimated 45 million American birders support the economy by spending nearly $40 billion annually on birding activities, generating significant employment opportunities and tax revenue.