Celebrate the Centennial of Migratory Bird Treaty

Thanks to a significant treaty between nations 100 years ago, the diverse birds that Wisconsinites watch, photograph and hunt are protected for current and future generations to enjoy.

On Aug. 16, 1916, the United States signed the Migratory Bird Treaty with Canada – the very first of its kind – to protect many migratory bird species from overconsumption. One hundred years later, such treaty agreements to protect and manage shared bird species continue to provide the foundation for bird conservation throughout the conservation community.

The Migratory Bird Treaty connects federal, state, private, non-government, tribal and international partners, who share a long, successful history of conserving, protecting and managing migratory bird populations and their habitats. Celebrating the centennial of the first treaty will bring together those who have contributed to its success, and will galvanize efforts to protect migratory birds for the generations to come.

Celebrating the centennial is as easy as spending time outside in search of birds, attending one of Wisconsin’s bird-related events or teaching someone new about birds, birding or bird hunting. To learn more about Treaty impacts and how to participate in the centennial, visit dnr.wi.gov, keyword “bird treaty.”