National Bird Day - January 5th

How Do I Get Involved?

Join API and the Avian Welfare Coalition in the annual National Day of Action for Captive Birds by helping to educate the public about issues affecting captive birds and by asking Petco and PetsMart not to sell live birds in their stores.

And don't forget to let us know your plans.

Post, Host, Write, or Recognize:
You can celebrate National Bird Day in many ways.

1. Post:

2008 National Bird Day Posters

Display these National Bird Day posters at your local animal shelter, library, co-op, school, or responsible pet supply store that does not sell birds and other animals. Posters for individuals are no longer available, but feel free to download them to print out yourself. (If someone is in need of posters for a special event or classroom, accommodations might be made. Email us at advocacy@bornfreeusa.org.)

National Bird Day Girl Poster
Artwork by Caia Koopman
+ Click to Enlarge
Download as PDF 		National Bird Day Parrot Poster
African Grey Parrot
+ Click to Enlarge
Download as PDF

New! Send an e-card (virtual postcard).

Send an e-card to a friend to introduce them to National Bird Day.

Sending the card is simple! With six designs to choose from, you're bound to find a card that fits your friend, and you can add your own personal message. Just follow the easy instructions.

Check out our MySpace page.

MySpace users can help us spread the word by adding National Bird Day to their Friends list.

This profile supports API's program to celebrate our native birds while reflecting on how we treat the native birds of other countries. Your involvement in spreading the word is a vital part in changing the lives of birds and putting a stop to their suffering — so please add National Bird Day as your Friends today!

Place an ad in your local newspaper or favorite magazine.

API also offers a free print advertisement to activists securing space in the newspaper, local distributions such as weekly entertainment segments, magazines, student yearbooks, athletic rosters, or anywhere else you can think to advertise National Bird Day.

Due to the various sizes and shapes available for print ads, all you have to do is secure the space and provide API with the company's contact information so we can send a sample ad and the ad elements directly. In addition to offering non-profit rates, many companies will lay out the ad for free when you purchase space, so be sure to inquire and API can send the company our non-profit number.

For more information, please contact API at 916-447-3085 x217 or info@bornfreeusa.org.

2. Host:

Host a coloring contest for kids.

Arrange a "More Beautiful Wild" coloring contest with your local school, library, or newspaper. Invite kids color a picture of wild parrots for a chance to compete in different age categories for a prize or gift certificate.

For more ideas for kids to celebrate National Bird Day, click here.

Host an educational display.

Community centers and local or school libraries often have exhibit cases that can be used for educational displays. Just ask the manager or librarian how to make a reservation and be willing to agree to some guidelines. Download materials are available from the Avian Welfare Coalition.

Host a video showing.

Wild at Heart DVD

A video showing can consist of close friends or family members viewing a video at home or reserving a classroom with a standard television or big screen for the public:

Host a bird art show celebrating birds in art!

In 2007, an art show was held in honor of National Bird Day:

For details of the wonderful artists who participated in the 2007 National Bird Day art show, as well as other celebrations, visit the "Success Stories" page.

3. Write:

Write a Letter to the Editor or Op-ed.

An Op-Ed is a guest opinion, usually appearing opposite the editorial page. In your letter or op-ed, draw attention to the plight of captive exotic birds in this country. Sample letters are available on API's website:

Write letters to Petco and PETsMART.

Let them know why you won’t patronize their stores. View a Sample letter and contact information.

4. Recognize:

Request your city Mayor to officially recognize January 5 as "National Bird Day" in your city or town. Download:

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