Celebrate the world’s waterfowl
The waterfowl group is comprised of more than 170 species of ducks, geese, and swans in the order Anseriformes. Twelve species are currently considered endangered or critically endangered in the wild. Awareness initiatives, like a national or international day of celebration, can emphasize the importance of waterfowl in the natural world and engage the public in learning about this fascinating group of birds.
World Waterfowl Day
Sylvan Heights Bird Park designated January 17th as World Waterfowl Day in memory of Mike Lubbock, one of the world’s leading waterfowl conservationists. Mike was born on January 17th, 1944. He dedicated his life and career to the conservation of birds, and had a direct role in the recovery of several endangered waterfowl species. He willingly shared his extensive knowledge and passion for birds with many people, and was committed to educating the next generations of wildlife conservationists.
World Waterfowl Day goals:
- Increase public awareness, knowledge and interest in all species within the order Anseriformes (waterfowl)
- Encourage participants to spend time outdoors appreciating wildlife and nature.
- Create a platform for participating organizations to share their commitment to waterfowl and conservation.
Find more info on waterfowlday.org
Big announcement on World Waterfowl Day 2026
One of the world’s most endangered waterfowl species now has a new sanctuary at Sylvan Heights Bird Park. In December 2025, nine Brazilian Mergansers – five males and four females – traveled to Scotland Neck, North Carolina from Zooparque Itatiba in São Paulo, Brazil as part of a collaborative conservation breeding program for the species. This marks the first time that Brazilian Mergansers have ever been in North America, and Sylvan Heights Bird Park is one of only two facilities outside of Brazil to be entrusted with the care of these rare birds. More info >>>
Above: Brazilian Mergansers at Sylvan Heights Bird Park | Photo by K.G. Lubbock
